SLO V ENIA N W INE R O A DS

SLOVENIAN
WINE ROADS
There are just three good things in the world:
the three big wine regions of Slovenia!
www.slovenia.info

All roads lead to wine
and chilling out!
“We eat and drink to live! But we don’t live to eat and drink!“ That‘s what the adage says, telling us
that both wine and food are consequences of man‘s economic endeavours, a form of social cohesion
and a reflection of the immense variety of cultural creativity. That is why it is through wines
and dishes that we can recognise life styles, ordinary days and holidays, the efforts of individuals,
families and inhabitants of towns, villages and regions. Through this publication we invite you
to discover the richness of all three wine-growing regions of Slovenia, which, with its hundreds
of years of cultural entanglements, is building its modern recognisability at the junction of the
European Alps, the Mediterranean and the Pannonian Plain. It is this very junction that also gives
a special and recognisable character to all of our wines and cuisine. Our numerous, often quite
boutique and extremely natural wines, include quite a few original or autochthonous specialties,
which, along with other wines, can very quickly create unique experiences and relationships for
you. Here the path from heart to soul is a very short one... That is exactly why we are offering you
several wine routs, which will lead you through the wine-growing regions of Podravje, Posavje and
Primorska... To good people and dishes and to noble wines!
Prof. Dr. Janez Bogataj

Podravje/Land of the Drava
Prekmuje
Štajerska Slovenija
Posavje/Land of the Sava
Bela krajina
Dolenjska
Bizeljsko Sremič
Primorska/e Coast
Koper
Kras
Vipavska dolina
Goriška Brda

Official geographic appellations of the
wine-growing regions, wine-growing
districts and wine-growing subdistricts
in Slovenia. For easier illustration,
we have only presented some of
these in the review.
6 slovenian wine roads
Wine-growing region of Podravje
Districts:
Štajerska (Slovenian Styria)
Subdistricts:
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Maribor
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Radgona-Kapela
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Srednje Slovenske gorice
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Ljutomer-Ormož
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Haloze
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Šmarje-Virštanj
Prekmurje
Subdistricts:
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Goričko
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Strehovsko-Dobrovniško-Kobiljske gorice
Wine-growing region of Posavje
Districts:
Bizeljsko Sremič
Subdistricts:
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Bizeljsko
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Sremic
Dolenjska
Subdistricts:
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Krško
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Gorjanci
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Novo Mesto
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Trebnje-Krmelj
Bela Krajina
Subdistrics:
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Metlika
Wine-growing region of Primorska
Districts:
Brda or Goriška Brda
Vipava or Vipavska dolina
Subdistricts:
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Zgornja Vipavska dolina
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Spodnja Vipavska dolina
Kras
Subdistricts:
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Kraška planota
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Vrhe
Slovenska Istra
Subdistricts:
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Coastal belt
• Wine-growing subdistrict of Šavrinsko gričevje

Slovenia’s No.1
tourist attractions
POSTOJNA CAVE IS A NETWORK OF 20 KILOMETRES OF PASSAGES, GALLERIES AND CHAMBERS INTO WHICH EXPERIENCED GUIDES HAVE
ACCOMPANIED OVER 33 MILLION VISITORS IN THE LAST 192 YEARS. IT IS THE LARGEST CAVE IN THE ‘CLASSIC KARST’ AND THE MOST
VISITED SHOW CAVE IN EUROPE. THE MOST INTERESTING TUNNELS WERE DISCOVERED IN 1818 BY LUKA ÈEÈ.
JUST 10 KILOMETRES FROM POSTOJNA CAVE STANDS ONE OF THE MOST PICTURESQUE WONDERS OF HUMAN HISTORY: PREDJAMA CASTLE. FOR MORE
THAN 700 YEARS IT HAS PERCHED PROUDLY IN ITS 123-METRE CLIFF: POWERFUL, DEFIANT AND IMPREGNABLE – THE PERFECT HIDEOUT FOR THE BOLD,
HEADSTRONG AND REBELLIOUS KNIGHT ERAZEM OF PREDJAMA, A ‘ROBBER BARON’ WHO IS THE SUBJECT OF A ROMANTIC AND BEAUTIFUL LEGEND.

The vigour of the
Pannonian Plain
8 slovenian wine roads
the tang
of the sea

Slovenia is a unique wine
region in Europe:
wine quality is marked by three
climate bands. Peter Lexe
It was like being struck by lighting. Years
ago, when the Karst was not yet a major
magnet for exploration tourism, but just
a mysterious allusion from Trieste recreational
enthusiasts, I got completely lost
in my car and ended up in some village
with a name that, although I could hardly
pronounce it, my eyes recognised its
exquisite melody: Dol pri Vogljah. There,
in the Ravbar inn, where I strayed out of
fear of having to endure some privation
among the oaks, beeches and birches, I
was struck by lightning. I dared to peek
into the kitchen and saw things that I
will never forget. Happy people, a happy
sun and happy bubbling in the pots. The
food was excellent, the Teran bitter, almost
salty, very mineral, but a quite outstanding
accompaniment to the roast
lamb from the oven.
This is in fact the way in good regional
Slovenian gastronomy: Every time it is
like an embrace, ennobled with culinary
and technical peculiarities. And the
wine from this region is like a kiss, so ardently
awaited after the loving embrace.
Slovenia is divided into three large wine
growing regions, which are in turn divided
into smaller topographically demarcated
areas. My journey begins in
the south-west, in Primorska.
The Karst is marked by Čotar, Lisjak and
Štoka – wine makers who cultivate a distinct
love of the desolate, red earth, and
who say self-confidently that they cellar
the best wines in the world. Of course
they realise that other regions and their
wines are more popular, they have more
advantages and nature has better endowed
them, yet nevertheless the Karst
wines show so much˝personality, soft
and sharp edges, evolved tannin and
harmonious acid content, that they enjoy
special status on the international
scale. Whoever has not stopped in at the
Karst restaurants Domačija Šajna and
Šepulje, or Špacapan in the village of
Komen, simply does not know what delights
are offered by the so-called “dry”
Karst.
Just a few kilometres from the high plateau
of the Karst, roads lead from the
medieval hill village of Štanjel into a valley
that can boast abundant, God-given
fertility: the Vipava Valley. At the foot of
a mighty mountain, in winter the wind
blows down its slopes, howls through the
valley, crosses the Karst and at Trieste it
rages off towards the Adriatic Sea: this is
the Burja, the north wind of Trieste. The
houses in the Vipava Valley seek shelter
and huddle close to the slopes: Oh wind,
spare us. The vines shake wildly, and the
apricot, peach and apple trees bravely resist
the tempest. It is as if the Burja is
trying to blast from the vines and trees
any hint of poor flavour and to leave
only what makes the wines of this valley
so famous: their fragrance. These are
the wines such as Zelen, Pinot bianco,
Pinot grigio and Chardonnay, cellared
so masterfully by the wine makers Tilia,
Batič or De Adami. In the fine Pikol restaurant,
which is situated a few kilometres
before Nova Gorica, these wines acquire
a quite special significance, when
you are served carpaccio of fresh-caught
sea bass, since they become outstanding
accompaniment to the food. Little restaurants
such as Žeja draw guests from
towns near and far.
The Vipava Valley, with its castles built
by the Gorica counts as fortifications
to defend against enemy tribes, is in

tourism terms still in its infancy, but
it is already slowly winning over epicurean
tourists. With the restaurant Pri
Lojzetu in the famous Zemono manor
house, Slovenia is showing what kind
of culinary experiences are possible.
You won’t stop in here just randomly,
for this is a restaurant in which food
and wine are glorified. Carlo Goldoni
knew why he had chosen this as his
favourite place. Via Nova Gorica you
can get to the Goriška Brda, the hills of
Gorica. Here you can witness the full
abundance of Slovenia’s wine growing
regions. Meri and Zlatko Mavrič were
the first wine makers to make the bold
step of not just serving guests wine. So
the Belica inn at Medana became the
first hotel in this famous wine growing
area. Wine makers such as Klinec,
Toroš, Šurek, Bužinel, Dolfo and others
joined in, building facilities for agritourism.
The Gorica hills are famous
for their outstanding wine makers such
as Kristančič, Simčič, Šurek, Klinec, Belica
and Mavrič. The Bjana champagne
house, and the Bagueri line of the great
Goriška Brda cellar, are famous names.
Many of the Gorica hills wine makers
have taken to soft tourism, and if this
continues, the region will have a long
10 slovenian wine roads
future for tourists who like to enjoy
themselves. Restaurateurs are also relying
on high-quality tourism. They are
not offering large restaurants with tourist
menus, but regional, local cuisine.
The Marica restaurant in the village of
Šmartno is the right place for this: local
wines, Karst pršut ham, home-made
salami and cheese from the Tolmin
valleys. Pinot grigio (Grauburgunder),
Rumena Rebula as the regional native
variety, Pinot bianco, Chardonnay and
red wines such as Refošk, Cabernet and
Merlot make up the wines of Brda. High
quality, and the alcohol content is high,
too. It is similar to the sea at Koper, Piran
and Portorož: tourism is pursued
there in different˝dimensions. Including
with wine. Vinag Koper has several
hundred hectares of vineyards. But the
Cabernet Sauvignon from their huge
cellar is in my opinion one of the best in
the country. This region is also becoming
increasingly important for its production
of olive oil. It has a special aroma
and flavour. The predominant wines
are gentle, light, pleasantly full-bodied
red wines, while the main white wine is
Malvasia – an excellent accompaniment
to fish dishes. One wine estate with a
very special drop of red is of course San-
tomas near Koper. Podravje is the name
of the wine growing region in the north
of Slovenia that borders on Austrian
Styria. The region has become famous
because of Slovenske Gorice and the
Štajerska (Slovenian Styria) region. The
high-quality development of this region
around Maribor 150 years ago can be
credited to a large extent to the Archduke
Johan. Mention should be made
just of some of the more famous wine
makers: Valdhuber, Protner, Gaube, das
Gut Meranovo, Dveri-Pax, Hlebec, Kogl
and Horvat.
This is home to the Kerner wine, a mixture
of Trollinger and Riesling varieties,
and also to Rizvanec, Muscat, Riesling
and also Zelen, with its Austrian name
of Rotgipfer. In addition to the red varieties
of Merlot and Cabernet, those
who love a good drop are delighted with
the Modra Portugalka, Modra Frankinja
and Šentlovrenka.
The Podravje wine growing region covers
the regions of Radgona-Kapela, Jeruzalem-Kog,
Ljutomer-Ormož, Prekmurske
Gorice and Haloze, where the vineyards
stretch out right to the transition into
the Pannonian Plain. Rural inns offer
a very diverse gastronomic experience,
serving up krvavica blood sausage, tunka

cured meat, roasts, stews, strong soups
and bograč goulash as well as an exquisite,
filling dessert called Gibanica. Wine
makers such as Kupljen and Čurin, and
the large wine cellars of Gornja Radgona
or Jeruzalem-Ormoż have made their
mark on the quality production of wines.
The Jeruzalem-Ormož cellar,
with its Pinot gris, has garnered a number
of international awards, while the Zlata
Radgonska Penina sparkling wine ranks
among the finest table brands in the entire
country. Another special experience
can be had in the catacombs of the large
cellars in Maribor and Ptuj. The wine
cellars, created in the Middle Ages, seem
almost infinite. The Vračko wine house
in Kungota, the Jeruzalem tavern and
Ribic restaurant in Ptuj rank among the
vintners that have long been able to offer
consistent quality and a great range.
A special feature of Slovenian wine making
can be found in the third wine making
region, called Posavje.
This is the home of Istenič, who produces
such high-quality sparkling wines that
his name is known beyond Slovenia’s
borders. The Bizeljsko Sremič subregion
produces wines such as Pinot bleu, Modra
Frankinja and the native variety,
Rumeni Plavec. This climate band is also
very well suited to Laški Riesling.
The wine slopes of Bela Krajina are composed
of light, loamy soil that is found
south of Ljubljana and south of the Gorjanci
mountains. The Šturm wine cellar
in Metlika is probably the southernmost
vineyard estate of this region. Its Sauvignon
blanc ensures a treat for the senses.
In this region you can find the elegant,
romantic Hotel Otočec, which stands
over water, and the Roman Kapušin inn
at Gradec.
And not far from Novo Mesto, the vineyards
produce wine with a special name:
Cviček. This Slovenian specialty thrives
in the quite steep vineyards along the
Sava and Krka rivers. Cviček is neither
red nor white wine, but Rosé. As for pronunciation,
just say “Tsvichek”! Given
its distinct acidity, it can also be drunk
without reservation by diabetics. This
wine goes well with a substantial snack,
bread and lard and greasy bacon.

Wine-growing region of Podravje
Come
and have
a glass!

WINE VARIETIES TYPICAL
OF THE WINE-GROWING
REGION OF PODRAVJE
• Sauvignon
• Pinot Blanc
• Pinot Gris - Rulandec
• Chardonnay
• Yellow Muscat
• Laški Riesling
• Renski Riesling
• Muscat Ottonel
• Dišeči Traminec
(fragrant Traminer)
• Zeleni Silvanec
(Green Sylvaner)
• Šipon
• Ranina
The wine-growing region of Podravje
extends through the north-eastern
part of Slovenia. The picturesque
vine-covered hills are imbued with
centuries-old links between their exquisite
wines and the work days and
holidays of their inhabitants, their
economic efforts, family relationships
and various forms of cultural
activity. These wines are thus present
throughout the life cycle of the local
population and help to shape joy and,
less so, sorrow, as well as work and
entertainment, habits and socialising.
Within the gamut of diverse and
highly numerous forms and phenomena
inspired by these excellent
wines, there are three fundamental
and recognisable features characteristic
of the wine-growing region of
Podravje. Firstly, there is the oldest
living vine in Maribor at Lent on the
Drava river, which has been producing
fruit for well over four hundred
years. Secondly, each year, the beginning
of the ripening of the grapes
and grape harvesting are announced
by the sound of wind-operated rattles,
locally known as klopotci. Their
original home is the wine-growing region
of Podravje, where they know of
two different types of this device, one
of whose purposes is to scare bothersome
birds away so that they stop
picking sweet grapes. And thirdly:
The wine-growing region of Podravje
is also a region of flour-based dishes,
with numerous types of flat breads
and skilfully braided breads. To the
present day they have been a characteristic
feature of festive meals at the
end of work activities or during solemnities,
such as church weddings,
when the groom, bride and priest
toast each other with St. John’s wine,
or šentjanževec, at the very altar! The
beginning of a life together, the beginning
of a new generation... wine
always accompanies people on these
journeys of life!

Getting back
14 slovenian wine roads
Truth be told: 15 or 20 years ago the
wine-growing region of Podravje played
a leading role in Slovenia. Most vintners
then began to rest on their laurels. Infatuated
with their own undisputed natural
resources and achievements, they all
but forgot to keep track of what was going
on in the world of wine-growing in
Slovenia and abroad. Consequently, the
wine-growers of Primorska, inspired by
influences from neighbouring Italy, began
to overtake them from all quarters. The
awakening came a few years ago, and the
wine-growers of Štajerska, as they cannot
be called Podravci, are winning old positions
firmly and steadily, which is good for
all and for them in particular. It has been
assumed for some time that Podravje
boasts certain wine-growing positions
that may be compared to the world’s best.
This includes the Burgundy, which is on
the same latitude. When several years ago
English wine experts and advisors, most
of them holding the prestigious title of
MW (Master of Wine), arrived in Ormož
and on some other wine-growing slopes,
they agreed unanimously that north-eastern
Slovenia had a wine-growing potential
that has not yet been utilised. And when
it is, it will be able to measure up to neighbouring
Austria and faraway New Zealand,
which today set standards for fresh
white wines and for recognisable varieties
of wines. The climate and soil in this part
of Slovenia are perfectly suited to such
wines. For now, there is enough red wine
only for specimens, but varieties of the

in the running
more northern type, such as Pinot Noir,
Modra Frankinja and Zweigelt, are gradually
returning to the scene, although some
wine-growers are successfully introducing
the Mediterranean wines Cabernet Sauvignon
and Syrah. The atmosphere is warming
up one way or another.
The wine-growing region of Podravje is
now catching up at an ever faster pace.
Before we go into details, we should first
explain what Štajerska (Slovenian Styria)
means within the wine-growing region
of Podravje. This region once had seven
wine-growing districts, but in 2006 six
of these districts were combined into one
under the joint name of “Wine-Growing
District of Štajerska (Slovenian Styria)”.
The former districts thus became subdistricts;
however, since their size and
significance have not changed, we have
treated these subdistricts in this publication
in the same way as other districts. Of
the former seven districts, only the northeasternmost
district of Prekmurje has retained
its status. This amalgamation was
carried out in order to increase recognisability
and to improve wine marketing, as
now different varieties from subdistricts
may be combined in categories, which
was not possible earlier. Suitable quantities,
with, of course, adequate quality, are
the precondition for penetrating markets,
especially foreign markets.
And that is where the wine-growers from
Štajerska, both large and small, are increasingly
successful. Verus vinogradi (see
the list under the Ljutomer-Ormož wine-
growing subdistrict) is a new and small
wine cellar owned by three enthusiastic
friends. In October 2009 the famous wine
critic Jancis Robinson recommended
their 2008 Yellow Muscat in The Financial
Times. Such recognition, coming from
the pampered English-speaking wine
world, carries some weight. In addition,
a month later, the prestigious and influential
London magazine Decanter placed
Verus’s 2008 Šipon among the wines of
the month, also an important sign of recognition.
The wine was referred to under
its Hungarian name Furmint, which is
better known in the rest of the world. This
is what Štajerska (Slovenian Styria) had
been waiting for. It needed approval for
Šipon. A question raised in recent years at
the annual festival of Prlekija wines held
in Jeruzalem manor in June, has been:
which variety could represent Štajerska
wines, or Štajerska terroir, as the word de
jour is, as the most recognisable variety
abroad? The wines that got mentioned,
with more apprehension than not, included
Sauvignon, Renski Riesling and
some others, but why go no matter what
where others are already making successful
inroads? Šipon is the most Slovenian
of all these wines – that is the message
about Štajerska’s land, climate and people,
which is what today’s wine world, saturated
as it is with good things, seeks. Its
communicativeness therefore also needs
to be emphasised when it comes to other
wine-growers, and not just those included
in the lists.
Jože Rozman
Štajerska’s large wine cellars are also awakening.
It is to be hoped that the sleeping
beauty, the renowned Vinag wine cellar
in the centre of Maribor (see the Maribor
subdistrict), which still has 300 hectares
of its own vineyards, will find itself on
that path. Maribor is a place where the
vines from Kalvarija, Mestni vrh, Piramida
and Meljski hrib grows virtually into
the city streets. The Ptuj cellar (Haloze
subdistrict) and its young and ambitious
oenologist, Bojan Kobal, set out a clear
path several years ago: fresh and recognisable
varieties and wines so pure that
make you feel as if you were eating actual
grapes, but full enough to leave a trace
in the mouth. Štajerska wine, of course.
They are also successful with richer and
more mature wines, as well as with wine
predicates. Their sweet Laški Riesling,
2008 Pullus, easily beat all its rivals at
the largest U.S. wine competition in San
Francisco in 2009, receiving the top Best
of Show award, while brilliant awards
from wine assessment events in Ljubljana,
Gornja Radgona, Vienna, London
and elsewhere are so numerous that they
can hardly count them all any more. The
large cellar Jeruzalem Ormož (Ljutomer-
Ormož subdistrict), which has been
joined by a smaller cellar from Ljutomer,
does not want to lag behind and offers
opportunities to a young oenologist with
international experience. Mitja Herga will
be able to show his experience from New
Zealand and elsewhere at home. The same
goes for Zlati Grič (Maribor subdistrict),

Leon Gjerkeš
Wine cellar Radgonske gorice
16 slovenian wine roads
where one of the most sophisticated wine
cellars in that part of central Europe was
built in 2009 and was almost entirely hidden
underground right in the middle of
70 hectares of its own vineyards, which
are surrounded by a wonderful golf course
at the base, while the top of the hill boasts
a farm with apartments. A more beautiful
place for wine tourism can hardly be
imagined. Changes for the better, with a
new image, different, more cosmopolitan
thinking and new bottling capacity have
also taken place in the Kapela wine cellar
(see the Radgona-Kapela subdistrict),
while Radgonske gorice (same subdistrict)
has no plans to relinquish its leading position
as a national producer of sparkling
wines, making big strides in the still wines
segment at the same time. Their first
neighbour is Danilo Steyer, who, among
other things, has an ampelographic garden
with numerous domestic and foreign
varieties, including forgotten ones, but
advertises himself as the House of Dišeči
Traminec. He knows how to properly capture
the sumptuousness of Traminec in
both barriqued dry wine and in attractive
wine predicates. Young Jurij Brumec from
Lipoglav near Loče, i.e. from the Maribor
subdistrict (he is not on the list, therefore:
jurij_vinum@hotmail.com), boasts similar
achievements. His dry berry selection of
2006 Laški Riesling received the highest
award, the regional trophy, of all Slovenian
wines at Decanter 2009 in London.
If you love Sauvignon, you must go to
Haloze right away. They also have wines
other than Sauvignon, although Haloze
Sauvignons, ranging from dry to sweet,
are the best known. Haloze’s friendliness
and hospitality are also well known.
Whether you walk, ride a bicycle or drive
a car, take your time in these sumptuous
areas. Time is regarded differently there.
Locals say that a person can never be in
such haste to get somewhere not to be
able to stop working and exchange a few
words with a traveller. They will then gladly
share a glass of wine with you, and if
you are in the mood, you may sit down in
the cool shade of a nearby tree. If they also
offer you water, it is an even greater welcome
than wine. Haloze has never lacked
in this, although it did lack water. How-

18 slovenian wine roads
Erich Krutzler - Marof
ever, it now also has enough water, and
you are rather more likely to accept wine.
Nature in Haloze is quite intact. Other
vineyards in Štajerska are making the
same efforts. Srečko Šumenjak (Maribor
subdistrict), an old hand among Decanter
award recipients, is offering more and
more wines from grapes produced in an
environmentally friendly manner, while
Aci Urbajs (Šmarje-Virštanj subdistrict) is
for now the only Slovenian wine-grower
entitled to the Demeter brand, which is
the highest and most demanding level of
biodynamic farming.
The wine-growing area of Prekmurje is
also awakening. The company Panvita
made a good step by appointing Erich
Krutzler as its chief oenologist in the new

and modern Marof cellar in Mačkovci. Prior to his appointment,
Krutzler gathered enough wine-growing and wine-producing experience
in his native province of Gradiščansko (Burgenland). He got
down to work in Prekmurje’s vineyards very seriously and studiously.
He studied the soil and lie of the land, using this as the basis
for conceiving three lines of wines, from simple ones from young
vineyards to very serious wines from older vines and the best positions.
This is how these things have to be dealt with, and recognition
is already arriving from Decanter and elsewhere. Krutzler
is definitely clearing new paths for Prekmurje’s wine-growing and
as it appears, he is doing so with like-minded people, who are discovering
the potential of local vineyards in their own right. Young
Egon Krampač (he is not on the list, therefore: krampac.egon@siol.
net) from Gornja Bistrica near Črenšovci was named a rising wine
star at the central Slovenian wine festival in Ljubljana in November
2009, while the even younger Jasmina Passero from the Lipič-
Passero estate (www.passero.si) from Tešanovci near Moravske
Toplice was named a promising young female vintner. So?
In the heart of the Styrian
and near the border with
Austria, our family grows and
Wines are distinguished by
Come and visit us!

From Goričko to Lendavske gorice
20 slovenian wine roads
Wine-growing district of Prekmurje
Goričko and Lendavske gorice are among the more beautiful wine-growing areas.
The picturesque hills rub shoulders with Laški Riesling, Sauvignon, Chardonnay
and Renski Riesling, as well as Zeleni Silvanec, Kerner, Yellow Muscat
and Traminec. The area is characterised by dry wines with a varietal bouquet,
with a predominance of sales of non-bottled wines.
GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Bosman – A richly decorated ceremonial bread, which was a compulsory gift to brides, newborns or godchildren.
It is decorated with several lines of plaited dough and various dough ornaments and paper roses.
Vrtanek – A characteristic bread cake made from plaited dough and prepared at the conclusion of farming
work (e.g. as a gift to haymakers) or at the time of various holidays. Today it is an important culinary element
of receptions and feasts.
Crackling cakes – Crackling cakes, also known as “fónke“, “fánke” or “fánkice”, are today a widespread dish in
Prekmurje, especially at various feasts, receptions and celebrations, due to their size and taste, which goes well
with wine.
Bujta repa - Bujta repa is a culinary specialty closely related to the preparation of pork (“koline”), and is an obligatory
part of a lunch or supper. Bujta (from the verb “ubiti” - “to kill”) is a dish served
when pork is prepared. It is cooked with turnips, parts of a pig’s head,
neck and skin and brought to boil with millet gruel. Roux and
spices are also added. This is a dish that can be eaten on its
own, but it is more typical to have it as a side dish for
sausages at the time pork is prepared for consumption
(buckwheat and millet sausages and black
pudding), roast meat or other meat dishes.

Dödöli - “Žganci” made from potatoes and strong white flour, dressed with lard,
onions, cracklings and topped with sour cream, is an excellent dish on its own as
well as a side dish for a meat course.
Makovi külinji – Dough squares or scraps of dough boiled in salted water, dressed
with sour cream and sprinkled with poppy seeds.
Prekmurje koline and Prekmurje ham – The production of a whole range of
traditional meat products resulting from pig slaughtering or koline, has been preserved
in Prekmurje. These include black pudding, sausages and stomachs. There
are several types of black pudding, which differ from each other in their stuffing.
In addition to buckwheat sausages, they also make white or millet porridge sausages
and “black pudding” or blood sausages, which are stuffed with cooked lungs,
meat, blood and spices. Special attention is paid to the drying and maturing of
pork legs. Hundreds of years of experience in this type of pork conservation have
resulted in the Prekmurje Ham brand, which has been classified as a protected
foodstuff with geographic origin (appellation).
Prekmurje bograč – Prekmurje is the Slovenian region that was under Hungarian
administration until 1919. That is why the local cuisine shows influences from the
neighbouring country. These include bograč or bograč goulash, named after the
vessel in which Hungarian shepherds cooked a meat stew. The present-day recipe
for the preparation of bograč from three types of meat, potatoes, peppers, spices
and mushrooms has been evolving since the 19th century. In Prekmurje, the tradition
of preparing bograč in a small kettle is very much alive today, and a bograč
making competition is held every year.
Repni retaš – The modern-day name for one of the most popular roulades with
turnip stuffing, which once was and in a few places still is a typical Christmas
dish.
Prekmurje gibanica – This is a top-quality, protected and probably most widely
recognised Slovenian dessert made from short dough and phyllo dough, stuffed
with poppy seeds, cottage cheese, walnuts and apples. This holiday dessert has its
roots in the culture of pogače, or flat breads, which is characteristic of the Pannonian
part of Slovenia. Before sugar went into general use, it was sweetened with
honey.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Lendava wine route
Cuk wine house
(See also Wine-growers and Vintners)
Cuk Ludvik
Lendavske gorice 217
9220 Lendava
M:+386 (0)31 467 990
hisa.vina.cuk@siol.net
www. hisa-vina-cuk.si
Hadik
Ščernjavič Ivan
Lendavske Gorice 144
9220 Lendava
M: +386 (0)41 728 015
te-kro@siol.net
Goričko wine route
Ferenovci
Marjeta Kous Ivanič
Krašči 23
9261 Cankova
T: +386 (0)2 540 15 51
Grah
Danijela Bedoke
Otovci 17
9202 Mačkovci
T: +386 (0)2 551 10 72
M: +386 (0)41 520 847
izl.kmetija@volja.net
Zelko
Slavka Zelko
Pečarovci 90
9202 Mačkovci
T: +386 (0)2 551 13 18
+386 (0)2 551 11 18
kmeckiturizem.zelko@volja.net
Tremel
Branko Tremel
Bokrači 28
9201 Puconci
T: +386 (0)2 545 10 17
Urisk wine shop
(See also Wine-growers and Vintners)
Urisk Sigfrid
Dobrovnik 204b
9223 Dobrovnik
T: +386 (0)2 579 90 26
M: +386 (0)41 411 714
urisk@siol.net
www.urisk.si
Vinarium wine shop
Franc Puhan
Bogojina 9a
9222 Bogojina
M: +386 (0)41 419 087
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Anton Nemec
Nuskova 31, 9262 Rogašovci
T: +386 (0)2 557 12 30
M: + 386 (0)40 854 442
Emil Laslo
Dobrovnik 273a, 9223 Dobrovnik
T: +386 (0)2 579 90 06
Franc Zelko
Pečarovci 90, 9202 Mačkovci
T: +386 (0)2 551 11 18
M: +386 (0)31 224 189
Hiša vina Cuk
Lendavske gorice 248, 9220 Lendava
T: +386 (0)2 577 34 26
M: +386 (0)31 467 990
hisa.vina.cuk@siol.net
www.hisa-vina-cuk.si
Jože Puhan
Bogojina 311, 9222 Bogojina
T: +386 (0)2 547 13 51
M: +386 (0)31 703 605
+ 386 (0)41 637 242
Panvita Marof, d. o. o.
Mačkovci 35, 9202 Mačkovci
T: +386 (0)2 530 36 24
info@panvita.si
www.marof.eu
Turistična kmetija
Janez Erniša
Suhi Vrh 103, 9208 Fokovci
T: +386 (0)2 548 18 59
Vina Gjerkeš, Leon Gjerkeš
Fikšinci 49, 9262 Rogašovci
T: +386 (0)2 55 88 620
M: + 386 (0)41 623 125
info@vina-gjerkes.com
www.vina-gjerkes.com
Vinotoč Urisk
Dobrovnik 204b, 9223 Dobrovnik
T: +386 (0)2 579 90 26
M: + 386 (0)41 411 714
urisk@siol.net
Vinovak, Ernest Novak
Vaneča 15c, 9201 Puconci
M: +386 (0)31 703 607
ernest.novak@siol.net

View all the way to Budapest with a glass of sparkling wine
22 slovenian wine roads
Radgona-Kapela wine-growing subdistrict
˝The hills of Radgonsko-Kapelske gorice are the cradle of the original Radgona Ranina.
The variety, which was discovered by Radgona’s wine-growers at the beginning of the
20 th century, is excellent for predicate wines. The first “knight” of these vineyards is
definitely Traminec, which wine cellar owners use to create a specific aromatic wine.
The collection of top wine varieties also includes Renski and Laški Riesling, Sauvignon
and Pinot Gris, with the blended Janževec wine being the specialty. Sunpampered
Janževec is so popular that every year it is stored in as many
as two million bottles. Radgonsko-Kapelske gorice also boast the oldest
known champagne cellar in Slovenia. Since as early as 1852 the
golden Radgona sparkling wine (Zlata radgonska penina), whose
sparkle has inspired legends, has been made there according to
the classic champagne method.

GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Plum soup – One of the countless milky soups with fresh or dried plums, is a filing
and refreshing summer soup.
Sireki – In much the same way as in Prlekija, sireki are also made in the Slovenske
gorice area. They are cone-shaped pieces of cottage cheese with salt, ground pepper
and caraway, dried in an oven or in the sun. Spicy sireki is a tasty snack that
goes well with bread and white whine.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Borko, Danijela Borko
Črešnjevci 9
9250 Gornja Radgona
T: +386 (0)2 561 13 79
M: +386 (0)41 730 093
Firbas, Alojz Firbas
Cogetinci 60
2236 Cerkvenjak
T: +386 (0)2 703 50 90
M: +386 (0)41 746 174
firbas@siol.net
www.firbas.com
Roškar
Anton Roškar
Lastomerci 25
9250 Gorna Radgona
T: +386 (0)2 564 9575
E: kralj.roskar@siol.net
Vinotoč Belak
Gregor Belak
Paričnjak 17a
9252 Radenci
M: +386 (0)41 655 356
Vinotoč Kupljen
Franc Kupljen
Okoslavci 2a
9244 Sv. Jurij ob Ščavnici
T: +386 (0)2 568 90 73
M: +386 (0)41 685 178
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Anton Belak
Paričjak 17a, 9252 Radenci
T: +386 (0)2 565 15 92
M: +386 (0)31 812 239
Danijela Borko
Črešnjevci 9, 9250 Gornja Radgona
T: +386 (0)2 561 13 79
M: +386 (0)41 730 093
Franc Kupljen
Okoslavci 2a, 9244 Sv. Jurij ob Ščavnici
T: +386 (0)2 568 90 73
M: +386 (0)41 685 178
kupljen.franc@volja.net
www.kupljen.si
Frangeževa penina
Jernej Frangež
Prežihova 10, 9250 Gornja Radgona
M: +386 (0)41 716 527
jernej.frangez@siol.net
Klet Kapela
Paričjak 22a, 9252 Radenci
T: +386 (0)2 520 42 50
+386 (0)2 520 42 55
kapela.klet@siol.net
www.kapela.si
Milan Senekovič
Lomanoše 25, 9250 Gornja Radgona
T: +386 (0)2 561 19 62
Radgonske gorice
Jurkovičeva 15, 9252 Radenci
T: +386 (0)2 564 85 10
F: +386 (0)2 561 10 39
www.radgonske-gorice.si
Vina Steyer
Plitvica 10, 9253 Apače
T: +386 (0)2 569 14 66
M: +386 (0)41 768 026
steyer.vina@siol.net
www.steyer.si
Vinogradništvo Kocuvan
Sovjak 30, 9244 Sv. Jurij ob Ščavnici
T: +386 (0)2 568 10 17
M: +386 (0)51 207 468
info@avos.si
www.avos.si
Vinogradništvo Vladimir Kupljen
Okoslavci 6
9244 Sv. Jurij Ob Ščavnici
T: +386 (0)2 568 90 73
M: +386 (0)41 685 178

24 slovenian wine roads
Ljutomer-Ormož wine-growing subdistrict
Song of the Prlekija rattle
Ljutomersko-Ormoške gorice has so many different types of soil that wine-growers from
around Jeruzalem can ensure ideal conditions for each variety. Železne Dveri is excellent
for Šipon, Chardonnay, Laški Riesling and yellow Muscat. Slemenasti Slamnjak, with its
vineyards facing southwest, is home to the world-renowned Laški Riesling. Rinčetova
Graba, with a view extending to Austria and Hungary, is friendly to Muscat Ottonel, Laški
Riesling and Chardonnay. Nunska Graba, with its cellar for matured wines, is famous for
Sauvignon, Renski Riesling, Chardonnay and Šipon. Gresovščak, where once warning
bonfires were burnt, is where the demanding and aromatic yellow Muscat is grown now,
but Traminec and Pinot Gris also thrive here. Renski Riesling vines bask in the sun in
Radomerščak, Pinot Gris vines are grown in Cerovec and Pinot Blanc vines in Svetinje, the
best late vines of Renski Riesling are grown in Vinski vrh, while Strmec is known for the
best late harvests of Laški Rieseling. Ormož and its surroundings boast Traminec, Laški
Riesling and Renski Riesling, Šipon and Sauvignon, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay. Thanks

to the gentle sun, predicates – selected overripe grape clusters, selections of
overly ripe grapes and ice wines – are also widespread. The delicate Muscat Ottonel
grows in Litmerk and Kogel. In addition to the small wine cellars from
Lahonščak to Sveti Tomaž, there is also a modern wine cellar in Ormož, which
holds demanding white wines and sparkling wines.
GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Prlekija tünka – A protected, high-quality method of preservation, where the
best parts of pork are preserved by first being salted, then baked and finally put in
wooden pails and filled out with minced lard. The meat preserves its exceptional
juiciness, aroma and colour. Visiting the Ljutomer-Ormož wine-growing district
without tasting Prlekija tünka is tantamount to not visiting this wonderful winegrowing
area called Prlekija at all.
Prlekija murke – A refreshing cold dish for the hottest days of summer, made
from fresh cucumbers, sour milk, sour cream, spices and lard.
Buckwheat pocket – The dish, known locally as kropec, has a rounded flat bread
form, which bears no reflection to its name. This tasty flat bread is made of a thin
layer of buckwheat dough, topped with cottage cheese and sour cream.
Prlekija gibánca or gibanica – An excellent
flat sweet bread made from
several layers of white phyllo
dough and a cottage
cheese filling, with the
addition of eggs, sour
cream and – more
lately, since the bread
has become a dessert
– raisins.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Bogša
Viktorija Bogša
Litmerk 15b
2270 Ormož
T: +386 (0)2 740 16 03
Sonja Ozmec
Senešci 83
2274 Velika Nedelja
T: +386 (0)2 713 61 50
M: +386 (0)31 554 490
ozmec.mitja@siol.net
www.ozmecgsm.com
Na koncu vasi
Suzana Kolbl
Cven 48c
9240 Ljutomer
T: +386 (0)2 584 98 76
M: +386 (0)41 340 589
turizemnakmetiji@gmail.com
www.nakoncuvasi.si
www.turizemnakmetiji.si
Fank -Ozmec
Vili-Martin Ozmec
Slamnjak 33
9240 Ljutomer
T: 5+386 (0)2 84 9 666
www.frank-ozmec.com
Stari hrast
Marijan Pihlar
Radomerje 3
9240 Ljutomer
T: +386 (0)2 584 89 80
M: +386 (0)41 772 432
info@starihrast.com
Belec
Milan Belec
Železne Dveri 9
9240 Ljutomer
T: +386 (0)2 584 99 84
www.belec-unikat.si
Hlebec
Milan Hlebec
Kog 108
2276 Kog
T: +386 (0)2 713 70 60
M: +386 (0)31 867 464,
+386 (0)41 689 229
tkhlebec@siol.net
www.hlebec-kog.net
Puklavec
Frančišek Puklavec
Zasavci 21
2275 Miklavž pri Ormožu
M: +386 (0)41 916 343
+386 (0)31 868 908
puklavecb@volja.net
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Emil Trop
Lahonci 36a, 2259 Ivanjkovci
T: +386 (0)2 719 42 42
Jeruzalem Ormož
Kolodvorska 11, 2270 Ormož
T: +386 (0)2 741 57 00
info@jeruzalem-ormoz.si
www.jeruzalem-ormoz.si
Kogl
Velika Nedelja 23
2274 Velika Nedelja
T: +386 (0)2 713 60 60
info@kogl.net
www.kogl.net
PRA-VinO, Čurin-Prapotnik
Kog 14-15, 2276 Kog
T: +386 (0)2 713 70 23
M: +386 (0)41 329 429
www.pra-vino.si
Verus vinogradi
Hardek 34a, 2270 Ormož
T: +386 (0)2.741 54 40
info@verusvino.com
www.verusvino.com
Vino Krajnc
Lahonci 50
2259 Ivanjkovci
T: +386 (0)2 719 41 26
M: +386 (0)41 518 285
info@vinokrajnc.com
www.vinokrajnc.com
Vino Kupljen - Jeruzalem
Mihalovci 59, 2259 Ivanjkovci
T: +386 (0)2 719 41 28
M: +386 (0)41 635 471
kupljen@volja.net
www.vino-kupljen.com
Vinogradništvo Krainz
Ilovci 30, 9240 Ljutomer
M: +386 (0)51 424 587
vino.krainz@gmail.com
www.luttenberger.eu
Vinska hiša Püklavec
Zasavci 21, 2275 Miklavž pri Ormožu
M: +386 (0)41 916 343
puklavecv@volja.net
Vinska klet Miro
Jastrebci 36, 2276 Kog
M: +386 (0)41 474 935
miro.munda@email.si
www.slovino.com/mirovino

26 slovenian wine roads
Wine-growing subdistrict of Srednje Slovenske gorice
Exceptional wines in Slovenia’s oldest town
The vineyards of Slovenske gorice - Juršinski Vrh, with Otto Herbertstein’s cellar, all
the way to Ptuj’s Mestni vrh and Zavrh, where until the end of the Second World War
vinedressers cultivated vineyards owned by townspeople - are sights worth seeing in
their own right. There the sun and rain nourish the vines of Laški Riesling, Renski
Riesling, the autochthonous Šipon and Ranina, Zeleni Silvanec, Pinot Gris and Blanc,
Yellow Muscat, Kerner, Traminec and other noble, especially, white varieties. Slovenske
gorice also boasts excellent conditions for highest-quality predicate wines and
wines that enrich the selection of matured wines – including the most famous wine
kept in the Ptuj Cellar, where the oldest wines in Slovenia are also kept.

GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Kipjena gibanca or kvasenica – The numerous types of breads made from leavened
dough include this flat bread from Slovenske gorice. It was once the main
dish for peasants working in the fields or vineyards, and it is still most tasty immediately
after it is baked, while it is still warm.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Slaničevi
Milena Slanič
Žikarce 37
2242 Zg. Korena
T: +386 (0)2 682 73 31
Pri Kapeli
Mojca Druzovič
Drbetinci 26
2255 Vitomarci
T: +386 (0)2 757 54 11
M: +386 (0)31 728 941
+386 (0)41 728 941
prikapeli@siol.net
Druzovič
Marta Druzovič
Drbetinci 47
2255 Vitomarci
T: +386 (0)2 757 93 36
M: +386 (0)41 730 835
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Izletniško vinogradniška kmetija
Marjan Lovrec
Jiršovci 24, 2253 Destrnik
T: +386 (0)2 753 31 11
M: +386 (0)31 619 549
Turistično vinogradniška kmetija
Pri Kapeli, Mojca in Marjan Druzovič
Drbetinci 26, 2255 Vitomarci
T: +386 (0)2 757 54 11
M: +386 (0)31 728 941
prikapeli@siol.net
Vina Sisi, Janez in Simon Druzovič
Drbetinci 13, 2255 Vitomarci
T: +386 (0)2 757 53 11
M: +386 (0) 41 985 945
Vina – Vinotoč Širec
Silva in Marjan Širec
Krčevina pri Vurbergu 76a, 2250 Ptuj
T: +386 (0)2 751 31 81
M: +386 (0)41 220 464
Vinogradništvo Rebernišek
Andrej Rebernišek
Mestni vrh 42b, 2250 Ptuj
T: +386 (0)2 751 55 51
M: +386 (0)31 688 841
Vinogradništvo Šuman, Radovan Šuman
Zavrh 90a, 2232 Voličina
T: +386 (0)2 720 84 60
M: +386 (0)41 645 420
Vinogradništvo Vršič – Vina Bakus
Anica in Stanko Vršič
Zagorci 67a, 2256 Juršinci
T: +386 (0)2 758 13 51
M: +386 (0)51 605 805
Vinogradništvo in gostinstvo Slekovec
Marija in Miroslav Slekovec
Mala Nedelja 22, 9243 Mala Nedelja
T: +386 (0)2 586 10 03
M: +386 (0)41 346 662
Vinogradništvo in vinarstvo
Marko Toplak
Juršinci 21, 2256 Juršinci
T:+386 (0)2 758 00 51
M: +386 (0)31 659 557
Vinotoč in vinogradništvo RM
Sebastjan Rojs
Selce 13, 2232 Voličina
T: +386 (0)2 682 77 21
M: +386 (0)40 797 130

28 slovenian wine roads
Maribor wine-growing subdistrict
The oldest vine in the world
Maribor’s entire wine-growing subdistrict, which is among the largest in Slovenia, is
dominated by Laški Riesling. Thanks to favourable natural conditions, this Laški Riesling
can boast top quality and champion titles. The right soil and sunny aspects are especially
suitable for Renski Riesling and Chardonnay at Kalvarija, Piramida, Malečnik, Vodole and
Celestrina, Rulandec and Zeleni Silvanec at Meljski hrib and Yellow Muscat in Kamnica.
Although white varieties of wine are still held in high regard here, the queen of wines is
still from the 400-year-old coffee-black or velvet-black vine, which is honoured every year
with ceremonial vine pruning and grape harvesting.

GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Štajerska sour soup – This soup, which was originally made during pig slaughters
from legs, tail and ears and soured with wine, has become one of the most popular
dishes eaten after sleepless, alcohol-filled nights. It also often rounds off wedding
receptions and New Year‘s parties.
Pohorje pisker – A typical meat and vegetable stew made of pork, beef and lamb,
with the addition of buckwheat and mushrooms in season.
Olbič or Pohorje žganci – A type of mash made of potatoes and corn flour and
dressed with cracklings.
Pohorje bunka – The most famous smoked meat product is Pohorje bunka. During
the preparation of pork for consumption, salted whole parts of better-quality
pork are stuffed into a pork stomach and beef intestines and slightly smoked and
dried in the air. Pohorje bunka is an indispensable element of cured meats.
Štajerska boiled štruklji – Štruklji with a cottage cheese filling are boiled and
served in water, i.e. in a soup dressed with cracklings or lard.
Pohorje omelette – This biscuit omelette, stuffed with cranberries and topped
with sweet cream, is an example of the invention of heritage as it was first made at
the Postmen’s Home on Pohorje in 1952.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Dreisiebner
Ivan Dreisiebner
Špičnik 1
2201 Zg. Kungota
T: +386 (0)2 65 60 040
E: majda_dreisiebner@
yahoo.com
Leber
Petra Leber
Podigrac 19
2201 Zg. Kungota
T: +386 (0)2 651 30 71
Gaube
Vilijem Gaube
Jareninska c. 51
2212 Šentilj
T: +386 (0)2 651 04 81
Lesjak
Marija Lesjak
Kozjak 28a
2215 Ceršak
T: +386 (0)2 647 27 41
Škrlec
Jožef Škrlec
Zg. Partinje 38
2223 Jurovski Dol
T: +386 (0)2 720 51 43
Pri Ratu
Magda Godec
Mariborska c. 9
2352 Selnica ob Darvi
T: +386 (0)2 674 05 03
M: +386 (0)31 320 310
www.pri-ratu.si
Protner
Darja Protner
Dragučova 65
2231 Pernica
T: +386 (0)2 473 03 92
M: +386 (0)41 857 007
bojanprotner@siol.net
Protnerjeva hiša Joannes
(See also Wine-growers and Vintners)
Joannes
Gregor Protner
Vodole 34
2229 Malečnik
Bračko
Anton Bračko
Vodole 5
2000 Maribor
T: +386 (0)2 47 32 444
Dvoršak
Ljudmila Dvoršak
Trčova 246
2229 Malečnik
T: +386 (0)2 47 30 648
Valentan
Alojz Valentan
Vodole 36
2229 Malečnik.
M: +386 (0)31 532 462
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Črnko
Jareninski vrh 5, 2221 Jarenina
T: +386 (0)2 640 73 51
M: +386 (0)41 767 117
silvo@crnko.net, www.crnko.net
Dveri-Pax
Polički vrh 1, 2221 Jarenina
T: +386 (0)2 644 00 82
office@dveri-pax.com
www.dveri-pax.com
Klet Bistrica
Vinarska 3, 2310 Slovenska Bistrica
T: +386 (0)2 805 08 20
info@klet-bistrica.com
www.klet-bistrica.com
Kmetija Šumenjak
Spodnje Hlapje 23, 2222 Jakobski Dol
T: +386 (0)2 644 9 445
M: +386 (0)41 277 794
kmetija@sumenjak.si
www.sumenjak.si
Kušter
Plač 9, Svečina, 2201 Zgornja Kungota
T: +386 (0)2 656 05 61
M: +386 (0)31 565 146
Protnerjeva hiša Joannes
Vodole 34, 2229 Malečnik
T: +386 (0)2 473 21 01
M: +386 (0)41 654 305
+386 (0)41 345 707
vino@joannes.si
www.slovino.com/joannes
Valdhuber
Svečina 19, 2201 Zgornja Kungota
M: +386 (0)41 346 895
+386 (0)51 352 865
Vinag
Trg svobode 3, 2000 Maribor
T: +386 (0)2 220 81 11
vinag@vinag.si
www.vinag.si
Vino Gaube
Špičnik 17, 2201 Zgornja Kungota
T: +386 (0)2 656 35 11
vinarstvo.gaube@siol.net
www.vino-gaube.com
Zlati grič
Stari trg 29a, 3210 Slovenske Konjice
T: +386 (0)3 758 03 50
info@zlati-gric.si
www.zlati-gric.si

30 slovenian wine roads
Haloze wine-growing subdistrict
The steepest slopes and most excellent wines
Exquisitely varietal and harmonious wines simply thrive on the
marly and limy soils of Haloze, where the Alpine and Pannonian
climates meet. The excellent Renski Riesling is grown on Janški
Vrh, as much as 461 metres above sea level. It also reigns supreme
on Veliki Vrh. Yellow Muscat ripens in Goricko, Pinot
Blanc and Chardonnay on Turški Vrh, Traminec on Majski Vrh,
Sauvignon at Hrastovec, Laški Riesling for ice wine on Gorca… In
addition to the excellent varietal wines, Haloze’s wine-growers
are also proud of their Haložan medium dry blended wine, whose
character is bestowed upon it by the Šipon, Laški Riesling and
Sauvignon varieties.

GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Erpica or jerpica – Housewives use dough (kneaded flour with bran) left over from bread
making to bake these tasty little flat breads, spread with cream and topped with cracklings.
Nowadays they are an excellent warm bake at receptions and other social events.
Haloze gibanica or gobónca - Haloze gibanica is only one of the numerous variants of
pogača, which is characteristic of the culinary image of north-eastern and eastern Slovenia.
Gibanica was the most widely used holiday pogača in what once was the impoverished
region of Haloze. Its name suggests that it used to be made from phyllo dough,
which was folded into several layers and filled with stuffing.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Kozarčan, Franc Roškar
Pristava 28a
2282 Cirkulane
T: +386 (0)2 740 80 30
+386 (0)2 740 81 31
M: +386 (0)41 549 526
kozarcan@email.si
www.kozarcan.si
Korpič
Marija Korpič
Dravci 4
2284 Videm pri Ptuju
T: +386 (0)2 764 28 81
M: +386 (0)40 509 610
korpic@gmail.com
www.kmetija-korpic.net
Žurmanov breg
Pungarčič Robert
Drenovec 7
2283 Zavrč
T: +386 (0)2 761 06 41
M: +386 (0)41 604 264
pungarcic@siol.net
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Kmetija Pintarjevi
Golc, Veliki Okič 1
2285 Zgornji Leskovec
T: +386 (0)2 763 06 71
Ptujska klet
Vinarski trg 1, 2250 Ptuj
T: +386 (0)2 787 98 10
info@ptujska-klet.si
www.pullus.si/prva
Skaza Magister Vini
Ulica Vide Alič 41, 2250 Ptuj
T: +386 (0)2 773 38 51
Turistična vinogradniška kmetija
Pungračič
Drenovec 7, 2283 Zavrč
T: +386 (0)2 761 06 41
Vina Lubaj
Kajuhova 3
2325 Kidričevo
T: +386 (0)2 796 18 11
Vinarstvo AS – Arnečič
Gradišča 116b
2282 Cirkulane
T: +386 (0)2 761 58 61
Vinarstvo Janžekovič Turčan
Turški Vrh 65
2283 Zavrč
T: +386 (0)2 766 00 81
Vinogradniška kmetija
Vaupotič Cestnik
Sedlašek 97a, 2256 Podlehnik
T: +386 (0)2 768 08 01
M: +386 (0)41 416 623
Vinogradništvo Kramar Marjan
Majski Vrh 26a
2284 Videm pri Ptuju
M: +386 (0)31 553 115
Vinogradništvo Plajnšek Franci
Kočice 54, 2287 Žetale
T: +386 (0)2 769 29 11

32 slovenian wine roads
Šmarje-Virštanj wine-growing region
Wine and the oldest pharmacy
Widely known white and red wines, whose specific character is
due to the lay of the hills, are made from the fruits of the noble
wines of Laški Riesling, Sauvignon, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Zeleni
Silvanec, Renski Riesling, Ranina, Rizvanec, Žlahtnina, Kerner,
Modra Frankinja, Pinot, Žametovka, Portugalka, Kraljevina
and Šentlovrenka. Along with Virštanjčan, a nice white or red local
wine which has been popular for a long time, more and more
top quality wines are grown here, which reveal their true characteristics
in combination with the abundance of local delicacies.

GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Korejevec - A vegetable stew, named after root crops. Only turnips and parsnips
were used originally, while today it is made mainly with carrots and parsnips.
Cheese zafrk(n)jača – The culinary specialties of the Kozjansko region include a
pogača locally known as zafrk(n)jača. Its name comes from the method of preparation
of this savoury flat bread, filled with cottage cheese, placed on leavened
dough in a baking dish. The parts of the dough which extend beyond the edges of
the baking dish are rolled up (“zafrkneti” in Slovenian).
Kozjansko pockets (kozjanski krapi or ajdov parjek) – Excellent as a main dish
or side dish that goes together with sauces and meat dishes, they are pockets of
buckwheat dough, filled with millet porridge and cottage cheese and dressed with
cracklings and cream. An exceptional masterpiece!
Kozjanska mlinčevka – An exquisitely juicy and filling bread made of several layers
of walnut and egg filling. This is an eminently festive dish, which can stand
proudly alongside the best cakes.
Kozjansko bread potica – A special kind of potica, made by spreading layers of
bread soaked in milk with warmed-up cream or whey. The whole is then wrapped
into dough leaves and baked in a baking dish.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Zdolšek
Milena Zdolšek
Okrog 16, 3232 Ponikva
T: +386 (0)3 748 22 50
www.zdolsek.si
Bizjak
Ida Bizjak
Orehovec 3
3253 Pristava
T: +386 (0)3 810 30 50
www.turisticna-bizjak.com
Velbana Gorica
Angelca Toplišek
Gostinca 18
3261 Lesično
T: +386 (0)3 580 55 40
M: +386 (0)41 550 366
velbana.gorca@volja.net
Klet Trebče
Aleksander Šmalčič
Trebče 82a
3256 Bistrica ob Sotli
T: +386 (0)3 580 40 65
M: +386 (0) 31 282 600
Smoletova gorca
Milka Smole
Polžanska Vas 9
3240 Šmarje
T: +386 (0)3 582 42 70
Slemenšek
Olga Slemenšek
Razgor 16
3212 Vojnik
M: +386 (0)70 864 203
Arzenšek
Franja Bornšek
Stranice 10
3206 Stranice
T: +386 (0)3 576 24 00
M: +386 (0)41 763 644
Urška
Vilma Topolšek
Križevec 11a
3206 Stranice
T: +386 (0)3 759 04 10
E: tk.urska@siol.net
www.kmetija-urska.com
Jager
Stanislav Jager
Starža na Gori 7
3222 Dramlje
T: +386 (0)3 579 80 61
Gačnikov hram
Anica Levart
Draža vas 33
3215 Loče
T: +386 (0)3 576 33 68
Vinotoč Cugmas
Marjan Cugmas
Dobrava 4a
3210 Slovenske Konjice
T: +386 (0)3 57 54 486
M: +386 (0) 41 824 364
+386 (0)31 483 554
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Aci Urbajs
Rifnik 44b, 3230 Šentjur
T: +386 (0)3 749 23 73
M: +386 (0)41 786 428
Amon Stanko in Greta
Olimje 24, 3254 Podčetrtek
T: +386 (0)3 818 24 82/83
Andrejka Štraus Kramer
Virštanj 3, 3254 Podčetrtek
M: +386 (0)51 351 216
Franc Namurš
Spodnje Tinsko 9, 3223 Loka Pri Žusmu
T: +386 (0)3 810 30 53
Franc Ogrizek
Zgornji Gabernik 13, 3241 Podplat
T: +386 (0)3 582 43 02
Ivan Mijošek
Zgornje Negonje 4b, 3250 Rogaška Slatina
M: +386 (0)41 386 510
Jani Vreže
Bobovo 6a, 3240 Šmarje pri Jelšah
M: +386 (0)41 731 671
Klet Imeno
Imeno 84, 3254 Podčetrtek
T: +386 (0)3 818 18 00
Klet Kregar
Cerovec pod Bočem 10
3250 Rogaška Slatina
M: +386 (0)41 600 333
Suzana Pečnik
Prelasko 9, 3255 Buče
M: +386 (0)31 607 427

Events
February
Kurentovanje – is a Slovenian folk custom
practised in pre-Lent celebrations
for the purpose of driving winter away. It
is marked by a dancing march of kurenti
through the village in special clothing
and with loud bell ringing.
Ptuj
March
The Pruning of the Old Vine has developed
into a highly popular event as part
of the annual cycle of events dedicated
to the Old Vine, culminating in festive
grape harvesting. The pruning of the oldest
vine in the world is a very important
wine-growing and social event at Lent. It
is also the time when the master of the
Old Vine, the mayor of Maribor, bestows
grafts on selected towns.
Maribor
April
Holiday of wine and home-made dishes
and wine evaluation
Podgorci, Ormož
34 slovenian wine roads
May
Fish and žganci in 101 ways
Veržej
June – July
LENT festival
The Lent festival is an international multicultural
festival that features more than
400 events for all tastes and generations
over the course of more than 14 days.
The festival venues offer concerts of
classic, jazz, pop and world music, singer-songwriters’
evenings and chanson
evenings, theatrical, puppet and dance
performances, sports events, creative
workshops for children, stand-up comedy,
the Folkart folk festival, the Jazzlent
festival and a street theatre festival.Maribor
August
The main dish is a special film programme
intended for true film buffs, enthusiasts
without prejudice and those
who are prepared to venture out of the
boundaries of good taste and morals.
The festival features fantasy, horror, in-
dependent and cult films, which go beyond
the established genre forms through
the indispensable conceptual addition of
wine, for which Prlekija is most famous,
and we traditionally open up completely
new horizons of culinary and cinematic
enjoyment to all our guests.
Ljutomer
September
Rafter’s christening
This tourist event, based on reinterpreted
elements of the Drava river’s rafting
heritage, attracts a multitude of visitors
and renowned guests every year.
Maribor
Harvesting of the oldest vine in the
world – the ceremonial harvest of the
400-plus-year-old vine at Lent in downtown
Maribor.
Maribor

PROTECTED PRODUCTS
• Prekmurje ham
• Štajerska-Prekmurje pumpkin
seed oil
• Prlekija tünka
• Prekmurje gibanica
• Free-range chicken breeding
Breeding chickens for the
“Domači gorički piščanec” brand
• Donat Mg natural mineral water
• Edina natural mineral water
• Tempel natural mineral water
• Tiha natural mineral water
• Radenska Classic, Radenska
Classic – Petanjski vrelec,
Radenska Light, Radenska Radin
natural mineral waters
Wine-growing subdistrict of Šmarje-
Virštanj
Šentjur tourist and information centre
Ulica skladateljev Ipavcev 17
3230 Šentjur
T: +386 (0)3 749 2523
M: +386 (0)41 660 091
F: +386 (0)3 747 1306
www.turizem-sentjur.com
tic@turizem-sentjur.com
Opening hours: Monday to Friday
9:00–16:00, (Wednesday until 17:00),
Saturday 9:00–13:00
Wine-growing subdistrict of Haloze
Halo d.o.o. – TIC Haloze
Cirkulane 56
2282 Cirkulane
T: +386 (0)2 795 3200
F: +386 (0)2 795 3203
www.halo.si
info@halo.si
Opening hours: Monday to Friday
8:00–16:00, Saturday 8:00–11:00
Wine-growing subdistrict of Maribor
Zavod za turizem Maribor
TIC Maribor
Partizanska cesta 6a
SELECTED RESTAURANTS
Gostilna Pec
Spodnja Selnica 1
2352 Selnica ob Dravi
T: + 386 (0)2 674 03 56
gostilnapec@siol.net
www.gostilnapec.si
Gostilna Šiker
Cotar Breda s. p.
Močna 7, 2231 Pernica
T: +386 (0)2 7206 921
F: +386 (0)2 7206 921
siker@gostilnasiker-sp.si
www.gostilnasiker-sp.si
Gostilna Rajh
Bakovci pri Murski Soboti
Soboška ulica 32
9000 Murska Sobota
T: +386 (0)2 543 90 98
M: +386 (0)31 705 007
www.rajh.net
Gostilna Tramšek
Žerovinci 25b
2259 Ivanjkovci
T: +386 (0)2 719 40 97
gostilna.tramsek@siol.net
marko.tramsek@siol.net
Gostilna Francl
Zagrad 77, 3000 Celje
T: +386 (0)3 492 64 60
Gostilna Pri lipi
Helena Kresnik Pažek s. p.
Mariborska cesta 12
2366 Muta
T: +386 (0)2 876 60 90
F: +386 (0)2 876 60 98
M: +386 (0) 41 722 091
info@prilipi.si
www.prilipi.si
2000 Maribor
T: +386 (0)2 234 6611
F: +386 (0)2 234 6613
www.maribor-pohorje.si
tic@maribor.si
Opening hours: Monday to Friday
9:00–19:00, Saturday, Sunday and holidays
9:00–18:00
Wine-growing subdistrict of Srednje
Slovenske gorice
Ptuj tourist and information centre
Slovenski trg 5
2250 Ptuj
T: +386 (0)2 779 6011
F: +386 (0)2 771 0175
www.ptuj-tourism.si
info@ptuj-tourism.si
Opening hours: Every day 9:00–20:00,
(closed on 1 January, 1 November and
25 December)
Wine-growing subdistrict of
Ljutomer-Ormož
Jeruzalem tourist and information
centre
Jeruzalem 8
2259 Ivanjkovci
T: +386 (0)2 719 45 45
Restavracija in vinoteka
Rožmarin
Gosposka ul. 8
2000 Maribor
T: +386 (0)2 23 43 180
+386 (0)2 23 43 319
restavracija@rozmarin.si
www.rozmarin.si
Restavracija Pri treh
ribnikih Ribniška 9, 2000
Maribor
T: +386 (0)2 234 41 70
trije.ribniki@termemb.si
www.termemb.si
Gostilna in hotel Lovenjak
Polana 40
9000 Murska Sobota
T: +386 (0)2 525 21 53
F: +386 (0)2 525 21 57
gostilna.lovenjak@siol.net
www.gostilna-lovenjak.com
Information centres
e-mail: ticjeruzalem@gmail.com
www.jeruzalem.si
Opening hours: every day 10:00–18:00
Winegrowing subdistrict of Radgona-
Kapela
Radenci Tourism and Sports Institute
Tourist office Radenci
Radgonska cesta 27
9252 Radenci
T: +386 (0)2 565 18 89
www.ztsradenci.si
info.radenci@siol.com
Opening hours: Monday to Friday
9:00–16:00, Saturday 9:00–14:00
Wine-growing district of Prekmurje
Tourist Association of Pomurje
Krajnčeva 12
9926 Moravske Toplice
T: +386 (0)2 534 8822 – Bestätigung:
Herr Damjan Jaklin
M: +386 (0)41 326 093
F: +386 (0)2 534 8823
www.pt-zveza.si
info@pt-zveza.si
Opening hours: Monday to Friday
7:00–15:00

Wine-growing region of Posavje
Three
regions,
many
differences

WINES TYPICAL OF THE WINE-
GROWING REGION OF POSAVJE
• Cviček
• Metliška Črnina
• Bizeljčan (white and red)
The wine-growing region of Posavje
was named after the central Slovenian
river Sava, as the wine-growing
districts extend to the left and right
of the river in south-eastern Slovenia.
These are the geographic areas of
Dolenjska, Bela Krajina and Bizeljsko.
The greatest specialty of this winegrowing
region is most definitely
the wine variety of cviček, a playful,
ruby-red wine with low alcohol content,
which is favoured by, among
others, all those who like good meat
dishes and cold meat products. Dolenjska
is a picturesque, hilly region,
cut through the middle by the meandering
Krka river. Settlements were
created at its bends centuries ago, as
testified by well-known material evidence.
Such a centre of Dolenjska is
Novo Mesto, its artistic centre is in
Kostanjevica, while living in Otočec
castle on an island in the middle of
the Krka river is an exceptional experience
Dolenjske, Šmarješke and
Čateške Toplice spas are there to
boost human physical and mental
health in this part of Slovenia. Perhaps
the most direct encounters
with Dolenjska wines and dishes
are provided by wine cellars known
as zidanice, or “wine cottages”, in
which one can also spend the night.
A special “little region” is Bela Krajina,
the border area with neighbouring
Croatia, where the well-known
Metliška Črnina and Belokranjec are
made. The region has a hilly part and
a flatland area with birch groves and
exceptionally hospitable inhabitants.
Bizeljsko lies on the left bank of the
Sava river, and it is home to many
excellent wines, including red and
white Bizeljcan and red and white
Sremican. A specific feature of the
region is its wine cellars dug into the
ground and called repnice, which provide
a unique way of experiencing the
exquisite Bizeljsko wines.

In this region, it’s
38 slovenian wine roads
Judging by their geographical position,
wines from the Posavje wine growing region
ought to be a mixture of wines from
the Podravje region (north-eastern Slovenia)
and the Primorska region (southwestern
Slovenia). But are they really?
Making generalisations regarding wine
and looking for a common denominator
often does not end well, as it leaves
out wine specifics which are so frequent
on the Slovenian wine growing map.
Therefore, in this - and in all other descriptions
of each of the three Slovenian
winegrowing regions – we will have a
look both at their common and distinctive
features.
The vicinity of the Pannonian Plain,
which was covered by seawater in distant
history, provides enough sunshine
and warmth to the vineyards in the
Bizeljsko Sremič wine growing region,
which results in rich, full-bodied
wines when everything goes well with
the grape harvest. Still having doubts?
How about visiting Janez Šekoranja on
his Graben estate? (You will find his address
on the list of ten recommended
winegrowers and winemakers) Although
he holds a BSc in Chemistry, Šekoranja
produces very natural wines. His wish is
for his wines to reflect the nature, and
to express what the soil and the sun
have bestowed on them. His wine selection
is very diverse, with dry whites
predominating. They might have been
sweeter had he harvested his grapes
earlier; however, he prefers to harvest

like May all year
the grapes when they are very ripe, even
overripe. But have no fear, alcohol is not
their predominant feature – the wines
have a lovely bouquet and a wonderful
aroma. However, his wine from Rumeni
Plavec – an indigenous wine grape variety
of the Bizeljsko Sremič wine growing
region which traditionally produces
a miserably acidic wine, often ending in
3rd class whites – is a veritable miracle.
Despite its dryness, your taste buds will
sing when you try Šekoranja’s version of
this wine. From here, everything will
run smoothly, possibly all the way to his
Gamay wine, once served even in the
White House in Washington.
In the Bizeljsko wine growing region, we
find the biggest Slovenian family producer
of sparkling wines. Janez Istenič (see
the winemakers list for address) holds
a BSc in Oenology. He said to himself
over 40 years ago: “Why, these Bizeljsko
rolling hills and Bizeljsko wines are not
THAT much different from the ones in
Champagne!” And so he began… Truth
be told, he will not let you taste his first
sparkling wine from 1968, named Barbara
after his daughter who was born
around grape harvesting that autumn.
Well, he cannot, really – for a long time,
only two bottles were left of it in his
cellar. One bottle was solemnly opened
upon the 35th anniversary of his wine
production – and we all respectfully took
our hats off to its sparkling, refreshing
vivacity. Currently, approximately half
a million bottles of sparkling wine are
ageing in the Istenič wine cellar, but
his desire is to reach a production of 1
million. Nothing special in the world of
sparkling wines – but definitely new in
Slovenian territory. However, don’t be
fooled into thinking that the quality of
his wines suffers because of quantity.
Janez and his son Miha are very precise
and consistent in their dealings with
wine. They have a diverse selection of
sparkling wines, from brut to demi-sec,
so as to satisfy different tastes. Event
the taste buds of ladies, who usually prefer
sweeter and bubblier varieties.
Another renowned Slovenian producer
of sparkling wines is Zdravko Mastnak
(listed as the Mastnak wine cellar in
the list), who lives in a completely different
part of the wine growing region
– his estate and a new, modern wine
cellar lie in Krakovo nad Sevnico The
ambition of his Valentina and Valvasor
sparkling wines is to please the drinker
rather than to start deep debates on the
attributes of the Traditional Method of
sparkling wine production. Valvasor, his
second sparkling wine, was named after
the famous Slovenian polymath and nobleman
Baron Janez Vajkard Valvasor
(1641-1693), Fellow of the England’s
Royal Society, who travelled these regions
and, among other things, documented
the drinking and other habits
of locals to present them in his seminal
and lavish work The Glory of the Duchy
of Carniola.
He crossed the Sava River and visited,
Jože Rozman
as we are about to now, the Dolenjska
wine growing region. With over 3,000
hectares of vineyards, this is one of the
biggest wine growing regions in Slovenia,
right after the Štajerska and the
Vipava wine growing regions. However,
there are very few winegrowers in the
Dolenjska region who own more than
five, ten or more hectares of vineyards.
We are talking about a dynamic region
of rolling hills, whose vineyards are on
higher southern positions. The northern
positions are covered with woods, and
the plains give way to crop and livestock
production. Nevertheless, this makes the
Dolenjska region all the more interesting
for the traveller, even the accidental one.
Each vineyard, even those with only 200
or 300 vines, has its own vineyard cottage.
If you find its owner in there, you
won’t be able to pass without tasting
some of his wine. There is an old and unwritten
rule in the Dolenjska region that
‘no thirsty man shall pass your vineyard
cottage’. Don’t hurt his pride and spoil
everything by insisting on paying for the
wine. If you see a cured salami hanging
from the ceiling, and if the man brings
some homemade bread, baked in the traditional
baker’s oven, do not have any second
thoughts. Few pleasures can match
eating this homely fare and drinking a
glass of Cviček wine with it. Ah, but let
us not stop at a single glass – you may as
well enjoy several! The alcohol content of
this indigenous wine from the Dolenjska
region, protected since 2000 with a spe-

cial regulation, is not allowed to exceed
10% and the wine has to be very dry. In
addition to providing ‘normal’ drinking
pleasures, Cviček seems to be the wine of
choice for people suffering from diabetes
and other diseases. Ah, this dear Cviček
of ours is just like the Dolenjska region
and its people: vivacious, humorous,
cheerful, fond of life, friendly and with
a springy step. The Cviček Consortium
has been active since 2004, uniting the
biggest and most prominent producers
of Cviček in their desire to firmly place
Cviček on the map of quality and wellknown
wines. We listed some of these
producers in our list, others can be found
at www.konzorcijcvicek.com.
Although we cannot think of the Dolenjska
wine growing region without thinking
of Cviček first, as this is the only region
in the world where this wine is being produced,
this is certainly not the only wine
from the region that deserves our attention.
Each last weekend in May, for more
than four decades, Novo Mesto, the capital
of the Dolenjska region, has hosted
the Cviček Week in its main town square.
Many people visit this entertainment
event which takes place after more than
a month of professional assessments of
wines. In the last few years, more than a
thousand wines (only from the Dolenjska
region!) have been assessed. Judging by
the number of wine samples, this has become
the biggest wine assessment event
in Slovenia. In addition to the Cviček
Miha and Janez Istenič
40 slovenian wine roads
wine grape variety, we find numerous
other wine grape varieties which can
be grown in the area: Chardonnay, Sauvignon,
Laški rizling (Italian Riesling),
Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris, Cabernet
Sauvignon, Modra Frankinja (Blue Franconian),
Zweigelt, etc. Owing to these
mass wine assessments, wines from the
Dolenjska region have achieved in the
last decade enviable quality, turning even
a visit to a small vineyard cottage into a
memorable experience with quality wine,
served in the right glasses for it.
Let us cross the Gorjanci mountain
ridge now, and visit the land of birch
trees, fern and vineyards. Welcome to
Bela Krajina, an idyllic, flat landscape
with gentle, friendly people.
Even the wines can be soft here, which is
particularly appreciated with mature red
wines. Though they are not the most pro
minent wines of the region, as they require
years of ageing, you will find them
in the Bela Krajina region nevertheless.
At least from those winemakers on our
list, but also from Plut of Drašiči, a place
with many good winemakers. Opposite
the Church of St. Peter in Drašiči, we
find Soseska zidanica (www.belakrajina.
si), a unique wine bank operating for
more than 200 years in the middle of
the village. In it, wine from more than
60 local winemakers is preserved in the
common barrel. The person who borrows
from it, i.e. drinks from it, must
return wine with interest. In the past,
its purpose was to collect money for the
renovation of the village or common
good, nowadays it keeps the tradition
alive. This could hardly happen in Bela
Krajina, where winemaking has been
getting even more popular in the last
two decades. This is good both for wine
lovers and curious travellers. Not so long
ago, people from the Štajerska region
held the indisputable first place when it
came to predicate wines, yet winemakers
from Bela Krajina have been tagging
closely behind (if not ahead at times).
They started with predicate Laški Riesling
(Italian Riesling), but these days
you will have no trouble finding Traminec
(Gewuerztraminer), Sauvignon, Beli
Pinot (Pinot Blanc), Sivi Pinot (Pinot
Gris), Chardonnay and Rumeni Muškat
(Yellow Muscatel), their greatest pride
between late and ice wine grape harvesting.
For many years, Rumeni Muškat
(Yellow Muscatel) was a forbidden wine
grape variety in Bela Krajina, but owing
to the stubborn Šturm family (see the
winemakers list), this wine grape is now
allowed to be grown in this region as
well. Some time later, the same happened
with the Traminec (Gewuerztraminer)
wine grape variety. Wines from both
wine grape varieties have shown excellent
results both in Slovenia and abroad.
Other types of wines too have received
notable nods from the Decanter World
Wine Awards, at international assessments
in Ljubljana, Gornja Radgona and
elsewhere, most frequently wines from
Jožef Prus, Dolc, the Mavretič family
and the Metlika Agricultural Cooperative
(all are on the winemakers list). The
persistent and diligent Jožef Prus has
been taking on the ever more prominent
winemaker’s role not only in Bela Krajina
and Slovenia, but also internationally.
In August 2009, he won so many
Champion Awards for his wines that he
and his son had both arms full. He also
won the Winemaker of the Year title. Is
it a coincidence that he simultaneously
opened a new, modern and spacious
wine cellar with an attractive wine tasting
room? And yet, there are many more
good winemakers in Bela Krajina. All
the local winemakers gather each May at

the traditional event called ‘Vinska vigred’
(Vineyard Spring), which for three
days fills Metlika’s town squares. Some
say this is the biggest, the nicest and
the most peaceful public merrymaking
in Slovenia. Once all the festivities are
over, a police report is published publicly.
Barely a scuffle, or not even that, has
been reported. And why should things
have been any different? In May, nature
is so verdant and fresh, the vines start
sprouting leaves… people are generally
happy. In the evenings, tiny lights illuminate
the houses lying on the rolling
hills of Bela Krajina, and everything is
so peaceful, so very Bela Krajina-like.
Well, not only in May, of course!

Vines in vineyards, wines in repnice
42 slovenian wine roads
Bizeljsko-Sremič wine-growing region
Cviček is to the regions of Dolenjska what red and
white Bizeljčan and Sremičan are to this area. In addition
to these blended wines, a varietal Pinot Noir,
Modra Frankinja, Zeleni Silvanec, Chardonnay, Laški
Riesling, Sauvignon, Šipon, Renski Riesling and Pinot
Blanc are maturing in wine cellars and Bizeljsko’s
unique repnice. The hospitable wine-growers are proud
of their late predicate harvests, wines made from selected
overripe grape clusters, overripe berries and
dry berry selections, as well as ice wines and sparkling
wines.

OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Klenovšek – Grobelnik
(See also Wine-growers and Vintners)
Slavica Grobelnik
Podvrh 39
8292 Zabukovje
Radej
Vidka Radej
Sremič 37
8270 Krško
T: + 386 (0)7 492 14 94
Pudvoi
Darko Ogorevc
Stara vas-Bizeljsko 89
8259 Bizeljsko
T: + 386 (0)7 495 12 28
M: + 386 (0)31 484 003
pudvoi@volja.net
Bela gorca
Branko Balon
Pišeška cesta 2
8259 Bizeljsko
T: + 386 (0)31 725 431
M: + 386 (0)41 507 766
GASTRONOMIC
SPECIALTIES
Corn prga or pršjača and pleteno
srce - Two bread products that bear
testimony to the ceremonial role of
grains and bread in this part of Slovenia.
Corn prga or pršjača, in its simplicity,
is proof of the mastery of local
housewives. Its surface is divided
into several squares, which tell you
how it should be eaten, and this facilitates,
in addition to providing welcome
flavours, great socialising and
communication. Pleteno srce (“woven
heart”) is a traditional wedding
bread originating from Artiče near
Brežice. The product is full of symbolic
wedding elements with plaited
dough, birds, rings and flowers.
Bizeljsko buckwheat bread -
Bizeljsko buckwheat bread is a salty
or sweet type of baked štruklji made
from buckwheat dough, filled with
cottage cheese and cream. It is most
savoury immediately after baking,
while it’s still warm.
Bizeljsko mlinčevka - Bizeljsko
mlinčevka is a vey tasty and juicy
tall bread, made from a filling of cottage
cheese between thin layers of
mlinci.
Repnice Graben
(See also Wine-growers and Vintners)
Mihela Šekoranja
Kumrovška 6
8259 Bizeljsko
Pinterič
Martina Pinterič
Bizeljska cesta 115
8259 Bizeljsko
T: + 386 (0)7 49 51 266
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Aleš Balon
Drenovec 3, 8259 Bizeljsko
M: + 386 (0)31 245 238
Faan, Fabjančič Andrej
Cesta prvih borcev 10, 8280 Brestanica
T: + 386 (0)7 497 30 50
Hiša trte in vina Kunej
Cesta prvih borcev 40, 8280 Brestanica
T: + 386 (0)7 497 33 30
M: + 386 (0)41 435 442
www.kunej.com
Istenič
Stara vas 7, 8259 Bizeljsko
T: + 386 (0)7 495 15 59
M: + 386 (0)41 780 954
office@istenic.si
www.istenic.si
Janez Cerjak
Pesje 7, 8270 Krško
T: + 386 (0)7 497 73 58
janez.cerjak@siol.net
Keltis
Vrhovnica 5, 8259 Bizeljsko
T: + 386 (0)7 452 00 60
M: + 386 (0)31 807 862
Molipači
Bizeljska cesta 33, 8259 Bizeljsko
T: + 386 (0)7 495 10 31
M: + 386 (0)31 758 418
Turistična kmetija Klenovšek - Grobelnik
Podvrh 39, 8292 Zabukovje
T: + 386 (0)7 818 81 76
M: + 386 (0)41 335 257
info@grobelnik.si, www.grobelnik.si
Vino Graben
Janez und Mihela Šekoranja
Kumrovška 6, 8259 Bizeljsko
T: + 386 (0)7 495 10 59
M: + 386 (0)30 611 010
+ 386 (0)30 611 011
sekoranja_janez@yahoo.com
www.vino-graben.com
Vinska klet Mastnak
Orešje 10, 8290 Sevnica
M: + 386 (0)41 690 136
zdravko.mastnak@siol.net
www.vinamastnak.com

44 slovenian wine roads
Wine-growing region of Dolenjska
Meeting a unique Cviček
At one time Cviček contained several grape varieties, but today
it is ennobled by a harmonious ˝proportion of Žametovka, as
the basis, Modra Frankinja and Kraljevina and other white varieties,
ranging from Laški Riesling, Zeleni Silvanec and Yellow
Plavec. The most famous Dolenjska dry wine has low alcohol
content and is almost without residues of unfermented sugar.
Many attribute medicinal properties to the fresh, sourish and
highly drinkable Cviček. In addition to Dolenjska’s most popular
wine child, many noble wines thrive on the low slopes, including
Laški Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvingnon, Kerner, Yellow
Muscat, Pinot Noir and Modra Frankinja. White Dolenjska
wine is popular along with varietal wines.

GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Potancel or potanca - Potancel or potanca is a thin, most
often salty flat bread made from buckwheat dough with
a cottage cheese filling. Dolenjska housewives serve it as
a greeting to arriving guests or instead of bread together
with meat dishes.
Poprtnik - An ancient type of ceremonial bread, which
was and is still prepared around Christmas time throughout
Slovenia. In the past it had to be on the table for all
three Christmases and was richly decorated with dough
ornaments. The custom of making decorated poprtniki is
still widespread in Dolenjska.
Bean štruklji - All of Slovenia is familiar with štruklji, ravioli
with different methods of preparation and different
fillings. The most varied types of štruklji in Dolenjska are
bean štruklji, which may be cooked or baked, a main dish
or a side dish served with roasted meat or poultry.
Matevž - Matevž, also known in some places as “the bear”
or “the potato’s grandfather” is a tasty, creamy puree-like
side dish or main dish made from boiled potatoes and
beans, originating from the first half of the 19th century.
Originally, it was a dish of the poor communities, but it
gradually assumed the role of a popular side dish or main
dish in inns and restaurants.
Roast goose or duck with mlinci and red cabbage - A
dish that is, so to speak, compulsory during the festivities
of St. Martin, known as martinovanje. The holiday once
represented the ceremonial conclusion of the harvest,
while today we celebrate it primarily as the day of young
wine or as the day when must converts to wine.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Pri Deželanu
Terezija Gorenc
Hrastno 5
8232 Šentrupert
T: + 386 (0)7 304 00 25
M: + 386 (0)31 402 302
josko.gorenc@gmail.com
Repovž
Jože Repovž
Šentjanž 14
8297 Šentjanž
T: + 386 (0)7 818 56 61
gtm.repovz@siol.net
www.gostilna.repovz.si
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Jarkovič
Brod v Podbočju 18, 8312 Podbočje
T: + 386 (0)7 497 70 13
M: + 386 (0)31 396 313
info@jarkovic.si, www.jarkovic.si
Kartuzija Pleterje
Drča 1, 8310 Šentjernej
T: + 386 (0)7 308 12 25
kartuzija.pleterje@chartreuse.info
www.kartuzija-pleterje.si
Klet Pirc
Ravni 3, 8270 Krško
T: + 386 (0)7 491 31 08
M: + 386 (0)41 521 881
janez.pirc@siol.net, www.klet-pirc.si
Klet Zajc
Arto 13a, 8293 Studenec
T: + 386 (0)7 338 25 76
M: + 386 (0)51 647 179
info@zajc.si, www.cvicek.net
Martinčič
Šmalčja vas 16, 8310 Šentjernej
T: + 386 (0)7 308 12 82
M: + 386 (0)31 202 166
+ 386 (0)41 903 755
j.martincic@siol.net, www.martincic.si
Vinarstvo Kerin
Straža pri Krškem 2, 8270 Krško
T: + 386 (0)7 492 07 62
M: + 386 (0)31 306 053
lojze.kerin@vina-kerin.com
www.vina-kerin.com
Vinska klet Bajnof
Sevno 1, 8000 Novo mesto
T: + 386 (0)7 307 56 33
M: + 386 (0)41 358 176
+ 386 (0)41 628 947
info@bajnof.si, www.bajnof.si
Vinska klet Frelih
Šentrupert 35, 8232 Šentrupert
T: + 386 (0)7 600 06 00
+ 386 (0)7 600 06 06
M: + 386 (0)41 666 045
vinska.klet@frelih.si, www.frelih.si
Vinska klet Jakše
Studenec 48, 8293 Studenec
T: + 386 (0)7 818 91 95
M: + 386 (0)31 339 763
Vinska klet Krško
Rostoharjeva 88, 8270 Krško
T: + 386 (0)7 488 25 00
M: + 386 (0)41 690 142
katarina.simoncic@kz-krsko.si
www.kz-krsko.si

Beautiful Anka leads the dance…and pours the wine!
46 slovenian wine roads
Bela Krajina wine-growing district
The people of Bela Krajina know that good wines are grown with the right vine in the
right position. The warm oasis of the wine-growing region of Posavje allows excellent
wines to be made in Bela Krajina from Chardonnay, Renski Riesling, Pinot Blanc and
Gris, Zeleni Silvanec, Yellow Muscat, Kraljevina, Kerner and other varieties. Traditionally,
Bela Krajina is a region of quite unique red wines of the Modra Frankinja,
Žametovka, Modra Portugalka, Šentlovrenka, Pinot Noir and Gamay varieties. The
most famous Bela Krajina wine is the velvety Metliška Črnina made from the grapes
of Modra Frankinja and Žametovka. A special experience is to taste the young Portugalka
wine, which you can get only in Bela Krajina. Also popular is Bela Krajina Rose.
The wine-growers of Bela Krajina were among the first in Slovenia to make ice wine
from frozen Laški Riesling grapes.

GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Cereal jaglača or mastenica sausage and čmar - Two typical semi-durable
products from pig slaughtering in Bela Krajina. The cereal sausage is filled with
millet porridge and meat. Before it is consumed, it is smoked for up to three to
five days, after which it is boiled with kohlrabi and potatoes, possibly also with
carrots and potatoes, and less often with sour turnip. Čmar is a type of stuffed
pork stomach.
Črnomelj filling or fuline - Locals call this compulsory Easter dish “nadef”. Intestines
are stuffed with bread, pork, bacon and spices. This dish is also prepared
at times of major activities in the fields and vineyards.
Bela Krajina pogača - In 2001 it was protected as a foodstuff with an indication
of traditional reputation. It arose centuries ago on the basis of intercultural contacts
with Uskoki, migrants from the Balkans, between the 15th and 16th centuries.
The flat bread is sprinkled with salt and cumin, and cut slightly as a grid of
squares before baking. This is both the bread’s ornament and the indication how
it is to be eaten – by breaking off individual squares.
Bela Krajina povitica - Locals call it “povética”. It is
a salty bread made from phyllo dough
with a filling of cottage cheese
and cream, rolled into a spiral
and baked. It is somewhat
reminiscent of the Balkan
burek.
Prosta povitica - This
Bela Krajina flat bread
is also trademarked.
Its special feature is its
egg filling, while its name
“prosta” means that it has a
simple egg filling.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Ecel
Peter Malenšek
Maline pri Štrekljevcu 17
8333 Semič
T: + 386 (0)7 306 70 22
Bajuk
Nena Bajuk
Radovica 54a
8330 Metlika
T: + 386 (0)7 305 86 70
M: + 386 (0)41 365 054
vesna.bajuk@email.si
Ob izviru Krupe
Danijela Cerjanec
Krupa 9
8333 Semič
T: + 386 (0)7 306 80 12
M: + 386 (0)41 418 162
daniela.cerjanec@volja.net
Bahor
Zdravko Bahor
Tanča gora 88
8343 Dragatuš
T: + 386 (0)7 354 04 07
Dragovan
Jožef Dragovan
Grabrovec 14
8330 Metlika
T: + 386 (0)7 30 50 110
Pri Martinovih
Milena Tomše
Globočice 8
8262 Krška vas
T: + 386 (0)7 496 10 57
www.martinovi.com
Pri Selakovih
Aleš Selak
Dobrava pri Škocjanu 32a
8275 Škocjan
T: + 386 (0)7 308 17 47
M: + 386 (0)40 837 389
sobe.selak@amis.net
Pr` Martinovih
Žan, Marta Krhin
Gor. Gradišče 7
8310 Šentjernej
T: + 386 (0)7 307 13 94
M: + 386 (0)41 906 426
Šeruga
Slavko Šeruga
Sela pri Ratežu 15
8222 Otočec
T: + 386 (0)7 334 69 00
www.seruga.si
Vinotoč Colarič
Leopold Colarič
Jablance 17
8311 Kostanjevica na Krki
T: + 386 (0)7 498 75 04
M. + 386 (0)41 322 900
tk.colaric@volja.net
www.posavje-turizem.com/
turisticna_ponudba/kmetija_colaric.htm
Vinotoč Jelenič
Marjan Jelenič
Jablance 10
8311 Kostanjevica na Krki
T: + 386 (0)7 498 70 01
M: + 386 (0)41 568 441
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Alojz Hoznar
Ručetna vas 8, 8300 Črnomelj
T: + 386 (0)7 305 29 48
M: + 386 (0)41 215 862
Ivan Simončič
Črešnjevec 9, 8333 Semič
M: + 386 (0) 41 655 509
agridoo@siol.net, www.semiskapenina.si
Jožef Prus
Krmačina 6, 8330 Metlika
T: + 386 (0)7 305 90 98
M: + 386 (0)41 690 112
+ 386 (0)41 333 240
Kmetijska zadruga Metlika
Cesta XV. brigade 2, 8330 Metlika
T: + 386 (0)7 363 70 00
info@kz-metlika.si , www.kz-metlika.si
Družina Mavretič
Lidija Mavretič
Drašiči 2 B, 8330 Metlika
M: + 386 (0)41 668 965
+ 386 (0)41 779 273
Martin Pečarič
Čurile 7, 8330 Metlika
T: + 386 (0)7 305 90 16
M: + 386 (0)41 753 263
+ 386 (0)41 217 950
Otmar Šturm
Mestni trg 25, 8330 Metlika
T: + 386 (0)7 305 89 99
M: + 386 (0)41 632 470
vina.sturm@siol.net
Vinogradništvo Malnarič – Nampel
Vavpča vas 40, 8333 Semič
T: + 386 (0)7 306 72 06
M: + 386 (0)41 799 037
info@malnaric.si, www.malnaric.si
Vinogradništvo in vinarstvo Dolc
Drašiči 13, 8330 Metlika
T: + 386 (0)7 305 90 93
M: + 386 (0)41 788 938
+ 386 (0)40 620 524
dolc.1834@gmail.com
www.vinogradnistvo-dolc.si
Vizir
Lokve 10b, 8340 Črnomelj
T: + 386 (0)7 356 74 10
M: + 386 (0)41 788 945
www.vizir.si

Events Gostilna
May
Cviček Week – a number of different
events celebrating Cviček, ‚the king of
Dolenjska wines‘ In addition to wine tastings
and evaluations, the entertainment
programme presents a good opportunity
to learn about regional gastronomy and
have fun with the locals.
Novo mesto
48 slovenian wine roads
June
Jurjevanje (celebrating St. George‘s Day)
in Bela Krajina is the oldest folklore festival
in Slovenia, based on traditional
spring celebrations. Various folklore
events keep the traditional rituals alive.
Črnomelj
July, August
Summer evenings in Novo Mesto – various
evening cultural events
Novo mesto
Information centres
Bizeljsko Sremič wine growing region
Tourist Information centre Čatež ob Savi
Topliška cesta 35
8251 Čatež ob Savi
T: +386 (0)7 493 67 57
www.visitbrezice.com
tic-catez@zpt-brezice.si
Opening hours: Monday to Friday
9:00–17:00; Saturday 9:00–16:00; Sunday
9:00–14:00
Dolenjska wine growing region
Tourist Information centre Novo mesto
Glavni trg 6
8000 Novo mesto
T: +386 (0)7 393 9263
F: +386 (0)7 3939 265
www.novomesto.si
www.dolenjska.net
tic@novomesto.si
Opening hours: Monday to Friday
9:00–18:00, Saturday 9:00–14:00
(01.10.-31.05.); Monday to Friday
9:00–19:00, Saturday 9:00–16:00, Sunday
9:00–12.00 (01.06. – 30.09.)
Bela Krajina wine growing region
Tourist Information centre Metlika
Trg svobode 4
8330 Metlika
T: +386 (0)7 36 35 470
F: +386 (0)7 36 35 471
M: +386 40 454 019
www.metlika-turizem.si
tdvigred.metlika@siol.net
Opening hours: Monday to Friday
8:00–16:00, Saturday 9:00–12:00
November
Numerous St. Marin‘s celebrations
throughout the Slovenian wine
growing regions
11 November, St. Martin‘s Day, is a
much loved celebration in Slovenia.
Martinovo (Martinmas) marks the
end of field work and the beginning
of the harvesting period. Most importantly,
St. Martin‘s Day marks the
day when the must traditionally turns
to wine. Several traditional dishes are
served for this celebration, e.g. roast
goose, duck, turkey or chicken, braised
cabbage and ‘mlinci’.
Throughout Slovenia
SELECTED RESTAURANTS
in prenočišča Rakar
Gorenje Ponikve 8, 8210 Trebnje
T: +386 (0)7 34 66 190
F: +386 (0) 7 34 66 191
gostilna.rakar@siol.net, www.rakar.si
Gostilna pri Kuklju
Trubarjeva cesta 31, 1315 Velike Lašče
T: +386 (0)1 78 89 098
F:386 (0)1 788 91 30
M: +386 (0)31 30 44 00
gostilna.kukelj@siol.net
www.prikuklju.com
Ošterija Debeluh
Trg Izgnancev 7 , 8250 Brežice
T: +386 (0) 7 496 107 0
M:+386 (0) 41 634 830
info@ostarija-debeluh.si,
www.osterija-debeluh.si
Restavracija grad Otočec
Grajska cesta 2, 8222 Otočec
T: +386 (0)7 38 48 706
jernej.jarc@terme-krka.si
www.terme-krka.si/si/otocec/kulinarika/
Gostilna Vovko
Ratež 48, 8321 Brusnice
T: +386 (0)7 30 85 603
F:+386 (0)7 30 85 400
anton.vovko@siol.net
www.markovide.com/vovko/kontaktne
Gostilna in prenočišča Repovž
Šentjanž 14, 8297 Šentjanž
T: +386 ( 0)7 81 85 661
F:+386 ( 0)7 07 81 85 660
M:+386 (0)41 732 970
gtm.repovz@siol.net
www.gostilna-repovz.si/
Gostilna Deu
Stari trg 3, 8230 Mokronog
T: +386 (0)7 34 99 640
F: +386 (0)7 34 99 427
gostisce.deu@siol.net
Gostilna Javornik
Rakovnik 6, 8232 Šentrupert
T: +386 (0)7 34 34 534
gostilna.javornik@siol.net
www.javornik.com
Gostišče Kos
Trška Gora 12 D, 8000 Novo mesto
T: +386 (0)7 307 58 90
F: +386 (0)7 307 58 91
M: +386 (0)41 628 428
GostilnaŠekoranja
Bizeljska cesta 72, 8259 Bizeljsko
T: +386 (0)7 495 13 10
Gostilna Kalin
Obrežje 6, 8261 Jesenice na Dolenjskem
T: +386 (0)7 495 71 91
+386 (0)7 495 72 26

PROTECTED PRODUCTS
• Kranjska klobasa (Carniolan
sausage)
• Bizeljsko buckwheat bread
• Bela Krajina pogača
• Bela Krajina povitica
• Prosta povitica
• Izida spelt
• Natural mineral water
• Dolenjski sadjevec (Dolenjska
fruit schnapps)

˝Wine growing region of Primorska
One foot
in a viney
in the sea
the

WINE GRAPE VARIETIES TYPICAL
FOR THE WINE GROWING
REGION OF PRIMORSKA
• Karst Teran
• Refošk (Refosco del Peduncolo
Verde)
• Malvasia
• Zelén
• Pinela
• Klarnica
• Grganja or Vitovska Grganja
• Rebula (Ribolla Gialla)
• Other wine grape varieties
include Beli Pinot (Pinot
Bianco), Sivi Pinot (Pinot
Grigio), Chardonnay, Sauvignon,
Sauvignonasse (also known as
Tocai Friulano), Barbera, Modri
Pinot (Pinot Bleu), Cabernet
Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz.
ard,
other
The Primorska wine growing region
is nowadays undoubtedly the leading
wine growing region in Slovenia. By
this we mean leading in all respects,
since its tradition of producing extraordinary
wines is in most cases accompanied
by an equally impressive
cuisine. The Primorska wine growing
region stretches from Goriška Brda
on its western side, to the Vipava Valley,
Karst and Slovenian Istria on its
southern side. A combination of the
Mediterranean and Alpine climates
has created the region’s unique conditions
for growing red and white
wine grape varieties. Of all the wine
growing regions in Slovenia, Primorska
has preserved the highest
number of indigenous wine grape varieties.
In the Karst, we find a variety
of the Refošk wine grape (Peduncolo
rosso) from which the famous Karst
Teran wine is made, a full-bodied
wine with a deep ruby colour. For
centuries, Teran has been praised for
its health-promoting characteristics
(some legendary, some real) and was
even prescribed therapeutically by
medical doctors in the past. In Slovenian
Istria, another type of wine is
made from the same wine grape variety
– Refošk. Nevertheless, these
wine grapes grow close to the sea,
on different soil and in a different
climate. The sun-drenched vineyards
and the proximity of the Adriatic Sea
are also excellent for the production
of Malvasia and some other types of
wines. The Vipava Valley represents
the furthest extent of the Mediterranean
region, and a home to some
exceptional indigenous wine grape
varieties, such as Zelén, Pinela, Grganja
and Klarnica; in Goriška Brda
the same grape variety and wine are
called Rebula. In addition to the indigenous
wine grape varieties, several
other well-known wine grape varieties
are grown, namely Beli Pinot
(Pinot Blanc), Sivi Pinot (Pinot Gris),
Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Sauvignonasse
(also known as Tocai Friulano),
Barbera, Modri Pinot (Pinot Noir),
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and
Shiraz. Oh, lest we forget: in that inn
around the corner, they serve excellent
fresh sea fish!

52 slovenian wine roads
For the
“To your right, the Vipava River valley
opens at your feet, with smiling valleys
that are cultivated like gardens all the
way to Gorizia. Due to its noble crops
and delicious wines it has oft been called
the ‘Paradise of Carniola’,” Matija Vertovec
(1784–1851), the priest from Podnanos,
romantically wrote in 1820 about
the beauty of the Vipava Valley for his
sermon at the Church of St. Geronimo
on Mt Nanos. His writings, published
in 1845 in Vinoreja (Wine growing), the
first Slovenian book on wine growing
and winemaking, are held in high regard
even today by wine growers from the Vipava
Valley and other regions. You will
not find a winemaker, producing the
indigenous wine grape variety Zelén in
the Vipava Valley, who could not tell you
what his fellow countryman Vertovec
said about the grape. Both Vertovec and
today’s winemakers believe this is a rare
wine grape variety, which explains why
the people of Vipava are so proud of it. It
is theirs, an indigenous wine grape variety
that does not grow anywhere else in
the world. It comes as no surprise then
that in 2003, all the main wine growers
of the Zelén grape wine variety from the
Upper Vipava Valley (although it is also
grown in the Lower Vipava Valley) came
together and established their own wine
Consortium Zelén. As things are with
consortiums, they often prescribe stricter
rules than the official regulations, so
wine made from the Zelén grape variety
is now bottled in a special, consortiumprotected
bottle. This is a guarantee that

extremely spoiled…
you have a genuine, first class Zelén
wine in front of you, one that has passed
all the required quality checks and received
high grades at wine tastings.
Moreover, scientific research has recently
shown that the Zelén wine contains
a high percentage of hydroxy-cinnamon
acids which have anti-oxidant, therefore
healing, effects on health. Connoisseurs
have also noted aphrodisiac effects of
the Zelén wine. In 2006, the Consortium
included Pinela, another indigenous
wine grape variety in the Vipava Valley,
to its list. Vertovec sang the praises of
this vine too, saying its “wine has become
well-known and loved.” However,
the first written record of Pinela goes
back as far as 1280, when Otokar, the
official historian of the Viennese Court,
wrote about the wine grape variety in
his book Rimana kronika. Pinela found
its geographical home in Planina nad
Ajdovščino, as it prefers higher positions
with marl soil. Up there, the ardent
wine grower Damjan Štokelj has
in his own way sworn himself to Pinela
(stokelj@gmail.com). Some time ago,
on one of the Vipava Valley wine presentations
at the Decanter World Wine
Awards in London, Štokelj’s Pinela wine
was praised by the legendary wine critic
Steven Spurrier. He said “one can taste
the terroir of the Vipava Valley in it.”
Had he tried Klarnica wine, made from
the third indigenous wine grape variety
from the Vipava Valley, he would have
undoubtedly said the same.
You can only taste it in two places: ei-
ther by visiting Bogdan Makovec in
Brje (mansus.makovec@siol.net) or the
Arkade tourist farm in Črniče (www.
arkade-cigoj.com).
A number of other wines from the Vipava
Valley winemakers can be sampled
in the Vipava winecellar (www.vipavska-dolina.si)
in the main square of the
town. You cannot miss it. It would be
more than a sin to miss out on the exquisite
red and white wines from Goriška
Brda, the most renowned wine growing
region in Slovenia, which has been gaining
increasing popularity on the world
wine markets. The glory of this wine
growing region has first and foremost
been promoted by the charismatic winemaker
Aleš Kristančič from the Movia
estate (see the winemakers list), not only
in Europe, but also in the United States
Primož Lavrenčič˝- Sutor
Jože Rozman
of America, Asia and Russia. Kristančič
has paved the way for other Slovenian
winemakers and firmly placed Slovenian
wines on the international wine
chart. Furthermore, he keeps surprising
us with his extraordinary novelties.
One of them is the disgorged sparkling
wine called ‘Puro’. The sediment of lees
is intentionally left in the bottle, which
contradicts the Traditional Champagne
Method. The bottle must be stored upside
down so that the lees collects in the
neck, and it must be opened in a small
vessel filled with water, where the yeast
shoots out under pressure. His other
wine surprise from recent times is Lunar,
made from the Rebula (Ribolla Gialla)
wine grape variety. The wine is left
to ferment, age, and stabilize completely
on its own without pressing the grapes.

Belica
Marjan Simčič
54 slovenian wine roads
After 7 months of natural vinification,
only the free-flowing wine from the unpressed
grapes is bottled without filtration
and allowed to refine in the bottle
before it is released. It is called Lunar because
Aleš does little work with the wine,
imitating the natural method of vinification
which occurs in nature through the
stages of the moon without the touch of
man. In contrast, traditional winemakers,
who wish to produce richer and more
mature wines, mix the mixture of grape
skins and lees. Marjan Simčič, his closest
neighbour and another renowned
winemaker (see the winemakers list), is
no less busy. To his Classical line of dry,
fresh wines, and Selekcija, a line of richer,
more intense and mature wines, he
added the prestigious wine label Opoka.
In Briški dialect, ‘opoka’ means ‘marl’, so
these wines are made from older grape
varieties grown on specially selected
positions that allow them to grow deep
roots on soil enriched with salts of marl
minerals. This adds a pronounced mineral
aroma to the wines. Opoka has set
new standards in this category of Slovenian
wines, just as the wines from Ščurek
(see the winemakers list) called Kontra
and Up have. Kontra proves that white
wine can be produced without undesired
oxidation (a frequent mistake with such
procedures) despite the extra long maceration.
The second wine, Up, has to be
enjoyed slowly – such a rich, exquisite
Merlot wine should not be subjected to
haste. The third winemaker of “the holy
Brda four”, is Edi Simčič (see the winemakers
list), who consistently swears by
rich and mature wines. Then again, the
name of one of his red wines, Kolos (Colosus),
says it all. People say of Edi that if
he was drawn by a caricaturist, he would
stand in his vineyard with a scalpel and
a pair of pincers in his hand. This is how
precise he is with his wines. His son Alex
has dutifully learned all the winemaking
tips and tricks from his father. Mind you,
there are many winemakers in the Brda
region who would like to achieve what
these four men have. Kabaj (see the win-

emakers list) has successfully expanded
his range with Amphora red wine; Klinec
(see the winemakers list) has dedicated
himself to organic winemaking; and
Belica from Medana (www.belica.net)
is not well-known just for his wines, but
also for hospitality on his tourist farm,
where he serves home-made prosciutto
and other cured products. Should you
become exhausted from “too much of a
good thing”, he also provides accommodation
facilities.
However, the neighbouring Karst wine
growing region is also interesting and
very eager to earn such a comparison,
most of all because of the architecture,
marked by Karst stone, from which the
majority of old Karst farmhouses are
built, many of them real architectural
jewels. Stone is also an important marker
in the Karst wine growing tradition,
but in a negative sense – it wants to come
out, on the surface, causing a perennial
lack of Karst soil terrarossa. Believe it or
not, soil had to be driven in from elsewhere
to build many of the karst vineyards.
This tradition is centuries-old,
with stubborn and diligent farmers digging
up soil in sinkholes and driving it
to where they wanted their vineyards to
grow. In addition to the red soil terrarosa,
limestone, to the extent tough vine roots
are able to penetrate it, also contributes
to the typical character of karst wines.
These wines are full-bodied, robust, rich
in extracts with a special, velvety taste
and a pleasant earthy bouquet. Most of
all Teran, of which the Karst people are
extremely proud. In the past, the best,
most exquisite Teran was hidden in the
darkest corner of their stone wine cellars,
and served only on special occasions, to
special guests or as medicine. Today, you
would have to be extremely unlucky to
find a bad Teran, for which the Consortium
of Karst Teran Winemakers is chiefly
responsible. A bottle with the label of the
Consortium is a guarantee that you have
a genuine Teran in front of you, one that
has passed all the required quality checks
and received high grades at wine tasting.
In the past, Teran was not deemed suitable
for ageing, yet the Vinakras wine cellar
(see the winemakers list) has proved
that some vintages of Karst Teran do age
well in oak barrels and retain their special
characteristics for decades. This aged
Teran is called Teranton; in the past, this
name was used by karst locals for the
very best Teran. The Karst wine growing
region produces some white wines, too.
These, too, are robust wines, yet palatable
due to their vivacious acidity. Vitovska is
perhaps the most indigenous wine grape
variety, which has found its way back
into the karst vineyards, also thanks to
Čotar (see the winemakers list).
What Teran represents to the Karst,
Refošk wine represents to the Slovenian
Istria. Both are made from the same
grape variety – the Refošk wine grape
(Peduncolo rosso) – but it is known by
a different name in the Karst. In Slovenian
Istria, therefore, we only find
Refošk. So much so, that the Slovenian
Istrians claim it is only theirs. Why?
Well, Refošk can talk to the farmers in
a local inn, the fishermen at the sea,
the tourist in a beach hotel restaurant,
the businessmen at business lunches in
Ljubljana or anywhere else in Slovenia...
Refošk can be charming with candle-lit
dinners or receptions and it can bravely
compete with other wines in culinary
marathons, as the journalist Drago
Medved once wrote. This is how things
are with this rex fuscusom, the ‘king of
dark red wines’ in Latin, which gives it
its name. The Slovenian Istrians are also
very fond of another wine, calling it Istrian
Malvasia instead of just Malvasia.
This wine can be both a seductive Mediterranean
miss and a charming, mature
madame. The times of cheap, excessively
sulphurised and oxidized Malvasia wine
are long gone. All three littoral municipalities
organise each spring a festival,
dedicated exclusively to Malvasia. The
Consortium of Istrian wines takes care
of the good name of both Malvasia and
Refošk wine, while the third renowned
Istrian wine, the intoxicatingly fragrant
and sweet Rumeni muškat (Yellow Muscatel),
needs no such protection as of yet.
It is exceedingly hard to steal the crown
from a muscatel wine in the category of
sweet wines anyway…

Cherries in spring, wine in autumn
56 slovenian wine roads
Wine growing region of Goriška Brda
Today, clonal varieties, Chardonnays, Sauvignons,
Beli Pinot (Pinot Bianco), Sivi Pinot (Pinot Grigio) and
various Cabernets grow on these extraordinary winegrowing
terroirs. However, the “queen of indigenous
wine grape varieties” is undoubtedly Rebula (Ribolla
Gialla), which produces a light-bodied, refreshing and
palatable wine. Next to it stand Pikolit, an elegant
wine with a fruity bouquet, and Tokaj (Tocai Friulano
is nowadays known as Sauvignonasse) with a wonderfully
rich taste of almonds. Among the reds, Merlot is
the most widespread and popular due to its moderate
acidity and deep ruby colour.

GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Križnik bread - A kind of festive Easter bread from western Brda, made with
superior quality ‚potica‘ dough and with the addition of dried figs, steeped in
schnapps or wine, hazelnuts, honey and cinnamon. It takes its name from the
cross (‚križ‘) cut into the top of the loaf.
Brda cherries - In addition to other fruits and vines, cherries are one of the key
characteristics of the natural wealth of Brda. Cherry production has a rich tradition
here, as Brda people have supplied them to large towns and tourist resorts.
Polenta - Although polenta is not an original dish of Goriška Brda, nor other
parts of Mediterranean Slovenia, it remains an important component of the staple
diet as a main course, and, even more so, as a warm or cold side dish with
various meat and vegetable dishes.
Frtalje or cvrče - These omelettes, also called ‘cvrče’, include various fresh herbs,
prosciutto and sausages. They demonstrate the local culinary creativity connected
with crops harvested in the local natural environment.
Toči - Toči is an expression referring to the most diverse meat sauces and goulashes,
into which people dipped (‘točati‘) polenta or bread. It is a staple diet for
breakfast or dinner and a real treasury of culinary improvisation.
Krodegini, šankanele and markandele - Three characteristic products of pig
slaughtering on a farm - krodegini or kožarice, šankanele or blood sausages and
markandele or pork intestine sausages.
Fuje - Rolls of bread, pre-soaked in a prosciutto soup and with flour, eggs, chives
and onion added, wrapped into slices of prosciutto. The dish is also
known as ‚fulje‘ or ‚punjáve‘.
Šfojada - A ‚potica‘ made of puff pastry and stuffed with diverse
fillings such as walnuts, pine nuts and raisins.
Štruklji “wljkava” - Baked ‚štruklji‘ made with unleavened
dough, stuffed with sliced fried sausage or
salami, olives and spices. The name of these ‚štruklji‘
comes from the local dialect name for olives (‚wljke‘),
which are an ingredient of the filling.
Pištunj - A thick puréed dish made of potatoes,
green beans and pumpkin, dressed with cracklings or
bacon. It can be served on its own or as a side dish.
Hubanca - A spirally wrapped ‚potica‘ with a walnut and
raisin filling.
Kuhnje - The dialect expression ‚kuhnja‘ is used in Goriška Brda
for a whole range of the most diverse tasty meat, vegetable and pasta
stews that are otherwise known as ‚mineštra‘ (minestrone).
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Belica
Medana 32
5212 Dobrovo
T: +386 (0)5 30 42104
info@belica.net
www.belica.net
Breg, Mirela Peresin
Breg pri Golem Brdu 3
5212 Dobrovo
T: +386 (0)5 304 25 55
mirelaperesin@tiscali.it
www.turizembreg.com
Hiša Marica
Šmartno 33
5211 Kojsko
T: +386 (0)5 3041039
info@marica.si
www.marica.si
Štekar, Roman Štekar
Snežatno 31a
5211 Kojsko
T: +386 (0)5 304 62 10
M: +386 (0)41 44 47 66
info@kmetijastekar.si
www.kmetijastekar.si
Štanfel, Štefan Štanfel
Podsabotin 5
5211 Kojsko
T: +386 (0)5 304 62 52
M: +386 (0)31 680 297
stefan@stanfel.si
www.stanfel.si
Tomažič, Katja Tomažiè
Hum 61b
5211 Kojsko
T: +386 (0)5 304 62 63
M: +386 (0)31 688 381
+386 (0)41 600 470
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Bjana, Miran Sirk
Biljana 38, 5212 Dobrovo
M: +386 (0)41 711 760
bjana@siol.net
Constantini
Plešivo 32, 5212 Dobrovo v Brdih
T: +386 (0)5 359 95 77
constantini@siol.net, www.constantini.si
Dolfo, Marko Skočaj
Ceglo 3d, 5212 Dobrovo v Brdih
M: +386 (0)40 757 677
dolfo@volja.net
Edi Simčič
Vipolže 39a, 5212 Dobrovo
T: +386 (0)5 395 91 74
info@edisimcic.si, www.edisimcic.si
Erzetič
Višnjevik 25a, 5212 Dobrovo
T: +386 (0)5 395 94 60
erzetic.visnjevik@volja.net, erzetic.aleksij@
siol.net, www.vina-erzetic.com
Jakončič
Kozana 5, 5212 Dobrovo
T: +386 (0)5 304 12 15
M: +386 (0)31 676 803
aljosa.jakoncic@siol.net
Kabaj Morel
Šlovrenc 4, 5212 Dobrovo
T: +386 (0)5 395 95 60
M: +386 (0)41 454 001
kabaj.morel@email.si, www.kabajmorel.si
Klinec
Medana 20, 5212 Dobrovo
T: +386 (0)5 304 50 92
klinec@siol.net, www.klinec.si
Marjan Simčič
Ceglo 3b, 5212 Dobrovo
T: +386 (0)5 395 92 00
M: +386 (0)41 614 768
info@simcic.si, www.simcic.si
Movia
Ceglo 18, 5212 Dobrovo
T: +386 (0)5 395 95 10
M: +386 (0)41 622 572
movia@siol.net, www.movia.si
Ščurek
Plešivo 44, 5212 Dobrovo
T: +386 (0)5 304 50 21
M: +386 (0)41 625 842
scurek.stojan@siol.net, www.scurek.com
Vinska klet Goriška Brda
Zadružna cesta 9, 5215 Dobrovo
T: +386 (0)5 331 01 00
istok.mikulin@klet-brda.si
www.klet-brda.com

Furthest extent of the Mediterranean
58 slovenian wine roads
Wine growing region of the Vipava Valley
In addition to the well-known wine grape varieties which grow in the Primorska region,
In the Vipava Valley we also find several indigenous grapes – the harmonious and refreshing
Pinela with a delicate bouquet; the wonderfully rich, slightly acidic Klarnica
from the sun-drenched vineyards; and Zelén, the sun-kissed “king of the Vipava Valley
wines”, which local winemakers always offer towards the end of wine tastings as it is indeed
a very special wine. With some luck, wine connoisseurs may come across Dišečka (in
translation: fragrant), the oldest, 200-year-old wine grape variety from the Primorska
region, which grows on Col (600m). The Dišečka vine bears grapes which produce only 30
litres of exquisite white wine per year. The Vipava winemakers are also renowned for the
superb Sauvignon, Rebula (Ribolla Gialla), Laški rizling (Italian Riesling), Beli Pinot (Pinot
Bianco), Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and other wine grape varieties.

GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Vipava jota - A local variant of the original Carnian dish. A sauerkraut stew with
beans, potatoes, lard, flour, garlic and pepper. Some prefer to prepare it with pickled
turnips, fresh cabbage, Savoy cabbage or beetroot leaves.
Bean minestrone - A thick soup made of cooked mashed and whole beans with
polenta. Although this is just one of the several Slovenian minestrone varieties,
this one is the most widespread.
Šelinka - Šelinka is minestrone-style soup made of celery and celeriac, vegetables,
spices and leg of pork. It is served with polenta.
Skuha (Barley Soup)- A stew made of lentils or beans with spices, occasionally barley,
and a spoonful of dry wine. Sausages and ham leftovers are also cooked in it.
Vipava prosciutto - A new brand of high-quality ‚pršut‘ (prosciutto), made from
the best pork produced in Slovenia.
Nanos cheese - This high-quality dairy
product is based on the rich heritage
of cattle farming and
cheese making on the
Nanos plateau, where
cheese making was
documented as early
as the 16th century.
Vipava štruklji
(rolled dumplings)
- ‚Štruklji‘ (rolled
dumplings) are made
from leavened dough,
cooked in a cloth with
fillings of walnuts, cottage
cheese, raisins and sugar.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Na Hribu, Petra Žorž
Slap 93
5271 Vipava
T: +386 (0)5 364 57 08
+386 (0)364 55 45
M: +386 (0)41 235 434
+386 (0)31 724 810
tk.nahribu@gmail.com
tzorz93@volja.net
www.nahribu-zorz.veha.net
Birsa, Birsa Oskar
Brje 18a
5263 Dobravlje
T: +386 (0)5 368 81 13
M: +386 (0)31 742 437
www.kmetijabirsa.com
Arkade
Cigoj Jordan
Črnice 91
5262 Črnice
T: +386 (0)5 364 47 70
maja.cigoj@siol.net
www.arkade-cigoj.com
Pri Rjavčevih
Vinko Cernatič
Šempas 158
5261 Šempas
T: +386 (0)5 308 86 59
+386 (0)5 307 87 09
M: +386 (0)51 304 609
Malovščevo
Milan Garbari
Vitovlje 68
5261 Šempas
T : +386 (0)5 307 88 90
M: +386 (0)51 452 311
+386 (0)31 362 947
info@malovscevo.si
www.malovscevo.si
Černigoj
Jože Černigoj
Lokavec 76b
5270 Ajdovščina
M: +386 (0)40 217 192,
+386 (0)40 239 189
kmetija.cernigoj@gmail.com
Ferjančič
Boris Ferjančič
Gradišče 11
5271 Vipava
T: +386 (0)5 368 52 83
M: +386 (0)31 892 585
druzina.ferjancic@siol.net
Gregorič, Nevenka Gregorič
Zalošče 1
5294 Dornberk
T: +386 (0)5 301 88 60
+386 (0)5 301 82 94
info@tk-gregoric.si
Vižintin
Ada Vižintin
Zalošče 42
5294 Zalošče
T: +386 (0)5 301 88 70
M: +386 (0)31 537 941
+386 (0)31 665 974
Pri Mlinu
Marko Furlan
Branik 206
5295 Branik
T: +386 (0)5 305 73 56
M: +386 (0)31 440 048
Pri Lisjaku
Hermina Lisjak
Sp. Branica 1a
5295 Branik
T: +386 (0)5 305 71 92
M: +386 (0)40 300 592
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Batič
Šempas 130, 5261 Šempas
T: +386 (0)5 308 86 76
info@batic.si,www.batic.si
Fornazarič
Vogrsko 167, 5293 Volčja Draga
T: +386 (0)5 301 23 06
M: +386 (0)41 383 879
ivan.fornazaric@siol.net
www.kmetija-fornazaric.com
Guerila
Planina 111, 5270 Ajdovščina
T: +386 (0)5 365 90 00
M: +386 (0)41 616 091
vinaguerila@gmail.com, www.guerila.si
Krapež
Vrhpolje 95, 5271 Vipava
T: +386 (0)5 368 71 10
M: +386 (0)40 219 500
vina.krapez@siol.net
Pasji rep
Orehovica 11a, 5272 Podnanos
T: +386 (0)5 366 91 19
M: +386 (0)41 745 020
Saksida
Zalošče 12a, 5294 Dornberk
T: +386 (0)5 301 78 53
M: +386 (0)41 208 345
info@vinosaksida.com
www.vinasaksida.com
Sutor
Podraga 30, 5272 Podnanos
M: +386 (0)41 363 272
primoz.lavrencic@p-ng.si, www.sutor.si
Sveti Martin
Brje 121 – Sveti Martin, 5263 Dobravlje
T: +386 (0)5 305 77 00
M: +386 (0)31 200 111
Tilia
Potoče 41, 5263 Dobravlje
T: +386 (0)5 364 66 84
M: +386 (0)31 399 748
tilia@lemut.net
www.tiliapremiumwines.com
Vinska klet Vipava 1894
Vinarska cesta 5, 5271 Vipava
T: +386 (0)5 367 12 00
M: +386 (0)41 644 517
www.vipava1894.si/vipava1894
Zaloščan, Vina De Adami
Zalošče 6a, 5294 Dornberk
M: +386 (0)41 485 971
www.zaloscan.si

Where the Karst ends, Teran ends, too
60 slovenian wine roads
The Karst winegrowing region
Teran, this highly prized and unique wine from the Karst region with a deep ruby colour,
moderate alcohol content and health-promoting characteristics, was prescribed therapeutically
by medical doctors in the 19th century to anemic and pregnant women – it was
even sold in Trieste’s pharmacies! The rich and full-bodied red wine is very palatable and
can be enjoyed with game, red meat and heavier dishes. Teran is the most perfect complement
to the famous Karst prosciutto. In the Sežana karst region, Refošk (Refosco del
Peduncolo Verde) or Teranovka grows on 560 hectares of vineyards and is considered the
most important wine grape variety. The area enjoys a benign climate which helps ripen
the grapes to the desired level for the production of the famed Teran. In addition, Rebula
(Ribolla Gialla), Laški rizling (Italian Riesling), Malvasia, Beli pinot (Pinot Blanc), Sauvignon
and Chardonnay are produced here.

GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Karst-Jota - In the Karst, ‚jota‘ is made from sour turnips
or sauerkraut, but always includes potatoes. Sweet Karst
‚jota‘ is a specialty and is made with mashed potato and
beans with the addition of carrots, spices and a spoonful
of vinegar
Šelinka - Šelinka is minestrone-style soup made of celery
and celeriac, potatoes, rice, occasionally beans, and a
spoonful of vinegar or dry wine.
Karst prosciutto – The centuries-old tradition of drycuring
pork, especially pork legs, in the Karst wind known
as ‚Burja‘ (Bora), has borne this top-quality product with
protected designation of origin.
Karst pancetta - In the Karst region, meaty bacon is drycured
to create a delicious pancetta, an important ingredient
of Karst cold cuts and a key ingredient of certain
dishes.
Karst zašinek - Shoulder of pork is dry-cured to create
‚Karst zašinek‘, another essential ingredient in a typical
Karst cold cuts platter.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Škerlj
Izidor Škerlj
Tomaj 53a
6221 Dutovlje
T: +386 (0)5 764 06 73
M: +386 (0)31 306 919
skerlj.tomaj@siol.net
Petelin-Durcik
Breda Durcik
Pliskovica 93
6221 Dutovlje
T: +386 (0)5 764 00 28
M: +386 (0)41 519 253
+386 (0)31 654 171
petelin.durcik@siol.net
Abram-Žerjal
Marta Žerjal
Sveto 69
6223 Komen
T: +386 (0)5 766 82 23
info@tk-abram.si
Budni
Darjo Spačal
Vojšcica 61
5296 Kostanjevica na Krasu
T: +386 (0)5 30 80 405
M: +386 (0)31 649 938
dara@siol.net
www.budni-kras.com
Ostrouška Pelicon
Mateja Ostrouška
Coljava 5
6223 Komen
T: +386 (0)5 766 80 61
mateja.ostrouska@siol.net
Pri Tavčarjevih
Patricija Petrovčič
Hruševica 44
6222 Štanjel
T: +386 (0)5 769 01 36
petrovcic.p@volja.net
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Boris Lisjak
Dutovlje 31, 6221 Dutovlje
T: +386 (0)5 764 00 63
M: +386 (0)41 652 039
info@lisjak.si, www.lisjak.si
Čotar Branko in Vasja
Gorjansko 18, 6223 Komen
T: +386 (0)5 766 82 28
M: +386 (0)41 667 126
+386 (0)41 870 274
vasjacot@volja.net, www.cotar.si
Kmetija Vrabec
Pliskovica 6, 6221 Dutovlje
T: +386 (0)5 764 16 72
M: +386 (0)41 645 508
vrabec.vrabec@siol.net
Petelin Viljem in Jadran
Pliskovica 52, 6221 Dutovlje
T: +386 (0)5 764 05 39
M: +386 (0)31 829 909
Renčel
Dutovlje 24, 6221 Dutovlje
T: +386 (0)5 764 00 12
M: +386 (0)31 370 561
jrencel@yahoo.com
Širca-Kodrič
Godnje 19, 6221 Dutovlje
T: +386 (0)5 764 06 32
F: +386 (0)5 764 06 32
M: +386 (0)41 740 560
sirca.kodric@gmail.com
Štok Rajko in David
Dutovlje 40c, 6221 Dutovlje
T: +386 (0)5 764 04 75
M: +386 (0)41 349 198
Štoka
Krajna vas 32, 6221 Dutovlje
T: +386 (0)5 764 03 27
M: +386 (0)41 667 125
vinostoka@email.si, www.stoka.si
Vinakras Sežana
Sejmiška pot 1a, 6210 Sežana
T: +386 (0)5 731 34 44
vinakras@siol.net, www.vinakras.si
Vinska klet Colja
Coljava 10, 6223 Komen
T: +386 (0)5 766 80 95
M: +386 (0)31 492 363
+386 (0)31 622 100
info@coljawines.com, www.coljawines.com

The sun in a glass
62 slovenian wine roads
The Slovenian Istria Wine Region
The most important wine grape variety is Refošk (Refosco del
Peduncolo Verde), whose grapes are macerated in open vats. A
thick and dark, almost violet wine is a symbol of the lasting Istrian
wine tradition which also boasts excellent whites. Istrian
Malvasia from the Koper region has a richer taste than Malvasia
wines from other regions. Rumeni muškat (Yellow Muscatel),
one of the oldest vine varieties in the world, produces an extraordinary
aromatic wine in this region. Other respected white
grape varieties in the Koper region include Chardonnay and Sivi
pinot (Pinot Gris), while red grape varieties include Cabernet
Sauvignon and Merlot.

GASTRONOMIC SPECIALTIES
Olive bread and fig bread - Examples of festively enriched bread made of white
flour to which sliced or mashed olives or dried figs are added.
Istrian jota - Istrian ‚jota‘ is made with sauerkraut and beans, but is differentiated
from the Karst ‚jota‘ in that it does not contain potatoes.
Fritaje or frtalje - A typical spring egg omelette containing wild asparagus, preroasted
with prosciutto or bacon, spring shoots of wild hops, bryony, butcher’s
broom and clematis. In Pomjan above Koper, the largest Istrian asparagus fritaja
is prepared each year on 30 April, with as many eggs as there are days in the current
year.
Pasta - Home-made pasta used to be made only for major celebrations, weddings
and other occasions. It is dressed with fried pancetta or eaten with goulash and
other sauces.
Minestrones - Minestrones are everyday stews in Istria. The most widespread
are ‚bobići‘ (corn) and ‚paštafažoj‘ (pasta and beans), while ‚rižibiži‘ (rice), vegetable
and barley minestrones, are also made.
Nákelda - Rolls made of stale bread soaked in chicken soup, eggs, grated ewe’s
cheese, raisins, bacon and summer savory as the main spice.
Istrian štruklji - All kinds of ‚štruklji‘ (strudels) are made from highly elastic
phyllo pastry in Istria. They have diverse fillings, e.g. cottage cheese, cheese, prosciutto,
cracklings, spinach, walnuts, apples, potatoes and various herbs, and are
mostly cooked, not baked.
White and red bakala (cod fish spread) - ‚Bakala‘ is probably the
most popular dried and salted codfish product and was, in its
white version, a typical Christmas Eve dish. The red ‚bakala‘
goes well with boiled potatoes, bread and polenta.
Fish in ‘šavor’ marinade - ‚Šavor‘ means a fish marinade
in the local Primorska dialect. Marinating fish
is a method that is especially suitable for smaller
sea fish, e.g. anchovies, sardines, picarel and red
mullets.
Calamari, sardines and anchovies - Calamari or
squid are prepared in a number of ways. The most
popular are grilled calamari, but they can also be
stuffed or fried. Calamari risotto is another excellent
dish.
Pedoči (mussels) - Pedoči (mussels) are, according to folk wisdom,
at their best in July and August. They are prepared in a number
of ways – very popular methods are mussels in ‘buzara’ sauce or pan-fried.
Fig loaf - An exceptional product made of dried ground figs, which are formed
into a loaf with fig or grape juice and lightly rolled in flour. Such a loaf remains
edible for a very long time. Cut into slices, it is enjoyed as a healthy natural dessert
without added sugar or preservatives.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
Bordon, Boris Bordon
Dekani 63
6271 Dekani
T: +386 (0)5 658 22 60
M: +386 (0)41 721 228
+386 (0)40 609 899
kmetija.bordon@siol.net
Škrgat
Srečko Markučuč
Hrastovlje 49
6275 Črni Kal
T: +386 (0)5 659 24 60
M: +386 (0)41 768 763
turisticna.kmetija.skrgat@siol.net
WINE-GROWERS AND VINTNERS
Brič
Dekani 3a, 6271 Dekani
T: +386 (0)5 669 91 05
+386 (0)5 658 05 27
F: +386 (0)5 658 25 27
M: +386 (0)40 745 804
fprincess@siol.net, www.freetime.si/05/
vino/6271_dekani/bric/bric.htm
Klet Mahnič
Dragonja 111, 6333 Sečovlje
T: (05) 672 23 00
M: +386 (041 642 851
+386 (0)31 715 866
mahing@siol.net
Korenika & Moškon
Korte 115c, 6310 Izola
T: +386 (0)5 642 00 30
+386 (0)5 642 10 49
M: +386 (0)41 607 819
mkorenika@siol.net
MonteMoro
Šmarska cesta 30, 6000 Koper
M: +386 (0)41 921 086
matjaz.babic@montemoro.si
www.montemoro.si
Pucer z Vrha
Nova vas 60a, 6333 Sečovlje
T: +386 (0)5 672 50 43
M: +386 (0)41 651 617
Rodica Truške
Truške 1c, 6273 Marezige
T: +386 (0)5 655 00 70
M: +386 (0)41 695 019
rodicam@volja.net, www.rodica.si
Rojac
Gažon 63a, 6274 Šmarje
T: +386 (0)5 656 94 20
M: +386 (0)41 794 770
+386 (0)40 309 476
www.rojac.eu
Santomas
Šmarje 10, 6274 Šmarje
T: +386 (0)5 639 26 51
M: +386 (0)41 728 724
santomas@monteko.si, www.santomas.si
Steras
Šared 43, 6310 Izola
T: +386 (0)5 642 00 85
F: +386 (0)5 642 00 85
M: +386 (0)41 788 173
info@steras.com
www.steras.com
Vinakoper
Šmarska cesta 1, 6000 Koper
T: +386 (0)5 663 01 00
hisa.refoska@vinakoper.si
www.vinakoper.si

Events
February
Wine Festival
Šempas
March
Br‘stovska šparglijada (Festival of Asparagus
Dishes)
Brestovica bei Komen
April
Saltpans Feast celebrating St. George
The Saltpans Feast traditionally takes
place on the last weekend in April. A
new season of salt-harvesting begins on
St. George‘s Day. Events include a saltevening,
salt-dinner, a trip to the Piran
Fair and a visit to the Saltpans Museum,
an afternoon in the spa (with salt and
fango mud), St. George procession in Piran,
a trip to the Saltpans, live music and
more.
Piran and the Sečovlje saltpans
Spring, Nature and Wine
Medana, Brda
Festival of Flowers, Wine and Olive Oil
Ankaran
April/May
Largest Istrian asparagus fritaja (made
from Istrian wild asparagus and eggs) -
cultural and ethnological programme.
Pomjan
64 slovenian wine roads
May
Rebula and Olive Oil Festival – wine and
olive oil tastings.
Višnjevik (Goriška Brda)
Refošk Festival
Marezige, Koper
Brda and Wine
day of open wine cellars
Šmartno, Brda
June
Traditional Olive Festival
Dekani
July
Polenta Festival – traditional cooking of
polenta, farmers’ fun and games, presentation
of traditional customs and entertainment
programme.
Ozeljan
International Mediterranean Folklore
Festival
Koper, Izola, Piran
Erasmus‘ Medieval Knight Tournament
Erasmus‘ Medieval Knight Tournament
is based on records and illustrations from
the 16th century, and offers visitors a
glimpse into life in the Middle Ages. It
is accompanied by a Medieval Feast with
dishes prepared according to the original
medieval recipes and served in a manner
used 500 years ago.
Postojna, Predjama
August
Teran and Pršut (Prosciutto) Festival –
this is a big and popular event which represents
an important promotion of the
Karst; it is the main cultural and ethnographical
event of the Karst wine growing
region. The biggest attraction of the
event is undoubtedly the procession of
decorated farmers’ carts and the election
of the Teran Queen.
Dutovlje
‘Čompe Night’ – a culinary festival dedicated
to jacket potatoes, called ‘čompe’ in
the Bovec region.
Bovec
September
‘Sweet Istria’ – festival promoting Istrian
culinary specialties, as well as culinary
and cultural traditions which are closely
connected that the Istrian region.
Koper
Tolminska Frika Festival – an interesting
culinary event celebrating the preparation
of ‘frika’, a gastronomic specialty made from
potatoes and cheese, which originates in
Posočje and neighbouring Alpine regions.
Tolmin

PROTECTED PRODUCTS
• Tolminec cheese
• Nanos cheese
• Bovec cheese
• Extra virgin olive oil from the
Slovenian Istria
• Piran salt
• Karst honey
• Karst prosciutto
• Brinjevec (Karst juniper brandy)
• Brkinski slivovec (Brkini slivovitz)
November
Numerous St. Martin‘s celebrations
throughout the Slovenian wine growing
regions
11 November, St. Martin‘s Day, is a much
loved celebration in Slovenia. Martinovo
(Martinmas) marks the end of field work
and the beginning of the harvesting period.
Most importantly, St. Martin‘s Day
marks the day when the must traditionally
turns to wine. Several traditional
dishes are served for this celebration,
e.g. roast goose, duck, turkey or chicken,
braised cabbage and ‘mlinci’.
Throughout Slovenia
Goriška Brda wine growing
region
Tourist Information Centre
Brda
Grajska cesta 10
5212 Dobrovo v Brdih
T: +386 (0)5 395 95 94
F: +386 (0)5 395 95 95
www.brda.si
tic@obcina-brda.si
Opening hours: Monday to
Friday 9:00–16:00
SELECTED RESTAURANTS
Gostilna Mohoreč
Kubed 66a, 6272 Gračišče
T: +386 (0)5 653 21 14
F: +386 (0)5 532 196
M: +386 (0)41 822 699
gostilna.mohorec@volja.net
Restavracija grad Socerb
Socerb 7, 6275 Črni Kal
T: +386 (0)5 659 23 03
M: +386 (0)41 571 544
gradsocerb@siol.net
www.socerb.eu
Gostilna pod Slavnikom
Podgorje1, 6216 Podgorje
T: +386 (0)5 687 01 70
M: +386 (0)41 379 382
podslavnikom@siol.net
Gostilna in prenočišča Skok
Štorje 27, 6210 Sežana
T: +386 (0)5 768 54 09
g.skok@siol.net
Domačija Majerija
Matej in Nataša Tomažič
Slap 18, 5271 Vipava
T: +386 (0)5 368 50 10
F: +386 (0)5 368 50 11
M:+386 (0)41 405 903
info@majerija.si
www.majerija.si
Information centres
Vipava Valley wine growing
region
Tourist Information Centre
Vipava
Glavni trg 1
5271 Vipava
T: +386 (0)5 368 70 41
www.vipavska-dolina.si
tic.vipava@siol.net
Opening hours: 10:00–18:00,
Saturday 9:00–14:00 (July,
August, Septembre every day
9:00–19:00)
Grajska klet na gradu
Kromberk
Grajska cesta 1
5000 Kromberk
T: +386 (0)5 302 71 60
F: +386 (0)5 302 71 61
M: +386 (0)41 692 237
restavracija@gradkromberk.si
Gostilna „Za gradom” Rodica
Kraljeva 10, 6000 Koper
T: +386 (0)5 628 45 50
Gostilna Mahorčič
Rodik 51, 6240 Kozina
T: +386 (0)5 680 04 00
F: +386 (0)5 680 04 01
M: +386 (0)41 679 588
Gostilna Apolonia
Šmarje pri Sežani 79
6210 Sežana
T: +386 (0)5 734 55 15
F: +386 (0)5 734 55 15
info@apolonia.org
Gostilna Ravbar 1888
Dol pri Vogljah 5
6221 Dutovlje
T: +386 (0)5 734 61 80
F: +386 (0)5 734 61 80
Karst wine growing region
Tourist Information Centre
Sežana
Partizanska cesta 63
6210 Sežana
T: +386 (0)5 731 0128
M: +386 (0)31 744 235
www.kras-carso.com
tic.sezana@siol.net
Opening hours: Monday to
Friday 8:00–16:00, Saturday
8:00–18:00, Sunday 9:00–
14:00
Gostilna pri Lojzetu,
dvorec Zemono
5271 Vipava
T: +386 (0)5 368 70 07
F: +386 (0)5 366 54 40
M: +386 (0)40 777 726
zemono@zemono.si
www.prilojzetu.com
Gostilna Žeja
Ozeljan 321
5261 Šempas
T: +386 (0)5 308 84 59
F:+386 (0)5 308 81 30
zeja@siol.net
Restavracija Pikol
Rožna dolina, Vipavska 94,
5000 Nova Gorica
T: +386 (0)5 302 25 62
+386 (0)5 333 45 23
info@pikol, www.pikol.si
Slovenian Istria wine growing
region
Tourist Association Portorož
Obala 16
6320 Portorož-Portorose
T: +386 (0)5 674 82 60
F: +386 (0)5 674 82 61
www.portoroz.si
ticpo@portoroz.si
Opening hours: Monday to
Saturday 9:00–17:00, Sunday
9:00–14:00, in summer
months 9:00–21:00 every day

How the inns were selected
The following inns and restaurants were selected because they are renowned in Slovenia for their
quality of service and cuisine. Some of them are members of the international gastronomic society
Chaîne des Rôtisseurs.
How the winemakers were selected
66 slovenian wine roads
If we take into consideration that Slovenia has more than 1,600 winemakers who bottle their
own wines, it becomes clear hat it is impossible to list all the wine cellars worth visiting when we
have a list of ten or so winemakers available per wine growing region or sub-region. Therefore, we
have decided to select and recommend some of the most prominent, breakthrough, innovative,
extraordinary and representative winemakers. We believe you will have no trouble finding many
other winemakers in this country. In fact, when you visit winemakers, most of them will gladly
tell you about a nearby or even a more distant wine cellar worth visiting. In addition, all the wine
growing regions are strewn with wine routes with clearly marked signs directing you to numerous
wine cellars, as well as vineyard and tourist farms that are not presented in our list.
Publisher: Slovenian Tourist Board
Editorial board: Prof. Dr. Janez Bogataj, Jože Rozman, Petra Kancler, Petra Mišič,
Alan Kavčič
Design and layout: Alan Kavčič
Translations: Amidas d.o.o.
Photography: B. Bajželj, Bobo, D. Cvetnič, A. Fevžer, F. Grisoni, T. Jeseničnik, B. Kladnik,
M. Lenarčič, B. Mihalič, D. Mladenovič, M. Močivnik, T. Reisner, J. Skok, V. Toš,
I. Vinovrški (from the STB archives and individual wine makers)
Printed by: Gorenjski tisk d.d.
Total print run: 40.000
All contact details correct at time of going to press, April 2010
Slovenia, map of wine growing regions and districts,
1 : 630 000 - 2010, 1 st edition
Published by: Slovenian Tourist Board
Design and editing: Primož Kete
Cartographic processing and print preparation:
Geodetic Institute of Slovenia, Jamova 2, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Sources: Tourist Map of Slovenia, 1 : 630 000, 2009; data from the Slovenian
Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food.
All rights reserved. Copying, duplicating or remaking the map in part or in whole
is prohibited without approval of the Geodetic Institute of Slovenia.

Hiša Marica is situated within
the walls of the picturesque
medieval village Šmartno.
Hiša We Marica o er home-made Casa prosciutto Marica
Hiša Marica other se house nahaja specialties Hiša and Marica top è situata al
znotraj wines. obzidja slikovite ere are four interno rustic delle mura medievali
srednjeveške rooms vasice at your disposal. di Šmartno, In our dove troverete
Šmartno. Nudimo domač prosciutto nostrano ed altre
pršut, druge little shop hišne speciali- you can purchase specialità della casa accomtete
ter typical vrhunska home-made vina. Na pagnati products. dai vini pregiati. A
voljo so štiri rustikalno disposizione quattro camere
opremljene Relive sobe. Šmartno Možen and arredate the region in stile rustico. Nel
je tudi Brda nakup with tipičnih its authentic nostro taste negozietto in è possibile
domačih pridelkov. acquistare i prodotti tipici
an ambience preserved through
della zona.
Doživite centuries. pristne okuse Brd
in Šmartno v ambientu
ohranjenem skozi stoletja.
Šmartno 33, 5211 Kojsko, Brda, Slovenija, tel / +386 5 3041039
email / info@marica.si, www.marica.si
Scoprite il vilaggio Šmartno
ed il Brda-Collio con i suoi
gusti genuini in un ambiente
conservato durante secoli.
Haus Marica
innerhalb von Umfassungsmauer
des pittoreskenmittelalterischen
Dorfes Šmartno.
Wir bieten hausgemachten
Schinken, andere Speziatäten
des Hauses und Spitzenweine.
Zur Verfügung stehen Ihnen
vier rustikal ausgestattete
Produkte.
Lernen Sie den Ort Šmartno
und die Region Brda mit ihren
echten Köstlichkeiten in einem
über Jahrhunderte erhaltenen
Ambiente kennen und lieben.
House Marica
Hiša Marica is situated within
the walls of the picturesque
medieval village Šmartno. We
other house specialities and
rustic rooms at your diposal.
In our little shop you can
purchase typical home-made
products.
Relive Šmartno and the region
Brda with its authentic taste in
an ambience perserved
through centuries.
Šmartno 33, 5211 Kojsko, Brda, Slovenija, tel / +386 5 3041039, email / info@marica.si, www.marica.si
Venezia
Udine
BRDA
ITA
Manzano
Cormons
Trieste
Slovenija
Plave
ŠMARTNO
Dobrovo
Venco
Hum
Plessiva Medana
Gorizia
Tolmin
SLO
Nova Gorica

Wine and Tourism
1898
Tradition that originates in the love of farming.
Our best vineyards locations give the top quality wine.
Taste the products from our wine country.
We are looking forward to your visit.
Welcome!
Zlatko Mavrič, Medana 32, Goriška Brda, 5212 Dobrovo, Slovenija
tel: 00386 5 304 21 04 · fax: 00386 5 395 91 09
www.belica.net · info@belica.net
Rooms: non-stop · Restaurant: from Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Monday